Stephen “Steve” Hollis Wilhelm, 67, passed away on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa.
Steve was born on May 29, 1959, in Missouri, the son of Hollis and Ruthann (Schink) Wilhelm. He graduated from Kahoka High School in 1977, and on January 17, 1981, he was united in marriage to Barbara “Barb” Jo Wilhelm in Keokuk, Iowa. She survives.
Steve was employed throughout the Keokuk area, working at Sheller-Globe for 15 years, co-owning Nostalgia and The Willow Tree with his wife for 32 years; and working at Roquette for 8 years. He also owned and operated several rental houses throughout the area.
Steve was a talented guitarist and musician, playing in several bands throughout the years, including “Ugly Stick” and “Persuasion”. He built a recording studio where he recorded his albums “Noodles” and “Stephen”, and mixed music for other Christian artists. Steve’s faith was evident in his life, and he was a founding member of Calvary Foursquare Church. He also pastored the Revere Community Church for several years. His biblical knowledge, relatable messages and compassion for others endeared him to his congregation. Faith and family were the pillars of Steve’s life, and many wonderful memories were made on four-wheeler trips and racing RC cars with his son Dylan.
Steve will always be remembered for his fun personality, great jokes and perfect comebacks, but his legacy will always be his love for the Lord and his family.
Steve is survived by his wife Barb Wilhelm of Burlington, Iowa; his son Dylan (Kelsey) Wilhelm of Burlington, Iowa; his mother Ruthann Wilhelm of New Mexico; his brother John (Wanda) Wilhelm of Montrose, Iowa; his sister Dawn (Hans) Korf of New Mexico. Other survivors include several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Steve is preceded in death by his father.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, November 6, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk, with burial to follow at Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 5, from 4 to 7 pm at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home in Keokuk.
Memorials may be directed to Calvary Foursquare Church in Keokuk.
Memories and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
DeJong-Printy Funeral Home of Keokuk is in charge of arrangements.
