Stephen Louis Podnar

Stephen L. Podnar, age 73 of Channahon, IL passed away peacefully at Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care in Joliet, IL on September 21, 2026. Stephen was born on September 14, 1953 in Joliet, IL to his parents Thomas Podnar and Anne Podnar (née Muren).

Stephen was a valued and respected team member at both Silver Cross Hospital and U.S. Steel during his career. His hard work and dedication afforded him the opportunity to retire early and truly enjoy the latter years of his life. He was what some would refer to as a renaissance man. He was an excellent musician, excelling at playing the guitar, harmonica, and of course piano (keyboards). He was also a fantastic chef who enjoyed making gourmet meals to share with his friends and loved ones, and one of his favorite activities was to simply hit the open road and go touring about in his Mercedes Roadster. 

Stephen is survived by his siblings, Thomas Podnar and Mary Lynn Panek.

Stephen cared deeply for the family, friends, and community members that he shared his life with, both from the Joliet area and his many years in Channahon. He will be sorely missed by those who loved him.

In line with Stephen’s wishes, cremation rites will be accorded and his mortal remains will be laid to rest in a ceremony at the Saint Mary Nativity Cemetery Chapel, 601 Caton Farm Rd. Crest Hill, IL  on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 11:00 am, where he will be inurned alongside his family members.