Steve F. Salopek

Steve F. Salopek,92, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2035, at Sunny Hill Nursing Home.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna (née Bokolich) Salopek; his brothers John (Josephine) Salopek and Mike (Mary) Salopek, John (Philomena) Prebeg and Milan Prebeg; sisters: Rose (Vincent) Kennerty, Katherine (Frank) Salopek Ament, Mary (Joseph) Prebeg Bozicevich, Catherine (Ceasar) Prebeg Bartolomei, Ann (Raymond) Prebeg Brenczewski, and Diane (William) Govednik.

He is survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Steve proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1954 during the Korean War as a corporal. He worked for many years as a body man and car painter at various dealerships in Plainfield, Joliet, and South Carolina. He was a longtime member of the Croatian Club and a faithful member of St. Mary's Nativity Church in Joliet, where he served as an usher for many years.

Steve was known for his musical spirit always carrying a pair of spoons or a harmonica in his pocket, ready to play along with any tune. He also played the accordion, enjoyed euchre, fishing, and spending time with his friends at local taverns and clubs. A true Chicago sports fan, he loved cheering for the Bears and the Cubs.

Family and friends are asked to meet at the church for a celebration of Steve's life that will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at St. Mary's Nativity Church, 706 N Broadway St, Joliet, IL with burial to follow at St. Mary's Nativity Cemetery with his mother. Cremation rites have been accorded per his wishes.