Steve E. Wilson, 71, of Macomb, passed away Monday, May 18, 2026, at The Elms Nursing Home in Macomb. He was born on September 8, 1954, in Fort Greely, Alaska, to Gene and Barbara “Bobbie” (Matthews) Wilson.
Steve is survived by his children, Scott Wilson and Olivia Wilson, both of Macomb, Illinois, and Hunter Wilson of Hazel Green, Wisconsin. His Brotherin- Law, Clarence John, his niece Andrea (Aron) Akers and great nieces Maylee and Mallorie Akers He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Susie John.
Steve spent his career playing in the dirt, just as he would want it. Running any and all heavy equipment – cranes, loaders, bulldozers etc. He and his father ran Gene Wilson and Son’s Excavation. He then worked for Hillyer Excavating, Ingledue Excavating and retired from Laverdiere Construction. He was a member of the International Union for Operating Engineers in Peoria. He also worked part time as deputy for McDonough County Sheriff’s Department in the mid-90s.
In his spare time (as a younger man), Steve raced dirtbikes with the Lamoine Ramblers and spent quite a bit of time at Macomb Speedway running 3/4 midget cars. In retirement he spent a lot of time with his trusted companion Waylon (a stray yellow tabby that showed up one day and never left) and driving around keeping an eye on the excavation jobs around the county.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Dodsworth Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to The American Stroke Foundation or the McDonough County Animal Shelter.
Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.dodsworthfh.com.
