Stephen Edward Pilip was born January 17, 1948, to Edward and Sandra (Maxine) Pilip in Glendale Heights, IL. He attended Glendale Heights High School. He left school two weeks before graduation to join the U.S. Army during Vietnam. He was in active combat for 18 months. He was injured with shrapnel and returned to the U.S. Steve was a proud Veteran.
He was licensed in AC/Refrigeration and worked for the Chrystal Company in Chicago for many years. Steve met his beloved wife Carol Ann Quigley in 1969. They married on January 23, 1970. They had three children. The family moved to Blossom, Texas on December 16, 1978.
Steve worked for McCuistion Hospital from 1978-1990 in the maintenance department, becoming the head of the department before moving to St. Joseph Hospital, as head supervisor.
Steve was an avid hunter and fisherman. The family spent many years at Pat Mayes Lake and Beavers Bend. He was a lover of all sports. Go Bears. He played baseball, softball, volleyball, and horseshoes. Steve was an umpire for baseball and softball in Lamar County for years. He was a lifetime member of the VFW. He was also a master wood craftsman and an all-around handyman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Carol Pilip, sister Patti Misek, and brother Robert Pilip.
He is survived by son Tommy Pilip, wife Monica, daughter Kelly Dorries, husband Clint, son Kevin Pilip, wife Christal. Grandchildren Brittany McKenzie, husband Casper, Payden Dorries, Jaycie Pilip, Zach Pilip, Casey Dorries, Keara Dorries, Cason Pilip and Evan Dorries. Great Grandchildren Kimber Kelley and Lochlin McKenzie. Ex-wife Patti Sue Pilip, numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, and nephews throughout Tx., Az., Il. And Wi.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or veteran programs.
The family would like to extend thanks to the staff at Heritage House and Chambers Hospice for their care. They gave him respect, kindness and allowed him to have his chew. Many Thanks!!!
Bright-Holland Funeral Home has scheduled services for 10:00 AM, Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the Evergreen Chapel at Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive family and friends Wednesday, October 28, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
