Racine- Stephen “Steve” L. Johnson, age 27, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Tuesday, July 3, 2013 at his home as the result of an enlarged heart – a medical condition he never knew he had.
Steve was born in Racine on July 30, 1985 to Dawn Marie Johnson and Ted Kirk. A graduate of Washington Park High School, Steve was currently employed as head-usher at Marcus Theaters – Renaissance Cinema in Sturtevant. An extreme movie buff, he enjoyed writing horror-show manuscripts. Steve was also an avid fisherman, Brewer and Packer fan, all-around wrestling enthusiast, could quite often be found playing video games, and had a tremendous appreciation for all kinds of music. Above all, Steve loved being in the surroundings of family and friends.
Surviving are his mother, Dawn Johnson; father, Ted Kirk; grandmother, Penelope “Penny” L. Johnson; step-father, Larry Dunkerly; sister, Cecilia Dunkerly; brother, Kaleb Dunkerly; aunts, Michelle (Ed) Hoffman and Lorri Willis; great-uncle, Charles (Judy) Jones; great-aunts, Gaylene (Marty) Ketterer and Debra (Tom) Casper; cousins, Zachary and Lucas Hoffman, Kim Eisel, Kim (Mark) Albrecht; Lance (Sara), Brian (Denise) and Marina Ketterer; Amanda Jones; Carly, Corbin, Cameron and Caden Casper; best-friend, Sarah; other dear relatives and friends.
Steve was preceded in death by his grandfather (of whom was his namesake), Stephen L. Johnson; and great-grandparents, Cecilia & Myron Jones, Virgil Johnson and Nyra Nelson.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Monday, July 8, 2013 at 5:00 pm with Rev. John Fleming officiating. A reception will follow. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Monday from 3-5 pm. In recognition of Steve’s love for music – especially barbershop harmony, memorials to the Racine Chapter of the Sweet Adelines have been suggested.
Lonnie Ziemke says
Steve was one of the greatest friends I ever had going all the way back to the year 2000. He always had a smile on his face and knew how to put a smile back on my face as well. I always thought of Steve as not only a friend, but also a brother. Sadly, he was taken away from friends and family way too soon. I look forward to seeing you once again in the afterlife Steve. I love ya man!
cassie witheril says
I’ve only known steve for maybe 2-3 years n in those 2-3 years I’ve known him as a good friend with a huge heart of gold n happiness and a bright smile every second I saw him, but I know I’ll see that bright smile everyday looking down on us making sure were behaving ourselves 🙂 …. stevo your now up there with the angels with no more aces or worries so it’s time to r.I.p now .. your are loved n missed dearly ….
Kristin & Jim Wilson says
Charlie: You and your whole family are in our hearts and prayers. For someone to be taken so suddenly and so young makes it even more difficult. Hang on to each other and know we are here for you and your family. We love you!
kenny mays says
To my friend Steve, I’m going to miss u buddy. I met Steve in high school I was in 10th grade and he was in 11th grade. He was the nicest person I’ve met he had a good heart. He always greeted people with a smile and a hello. Every time I watch a movie now I’m going to think about u, I remember watching movies with u all the time and hanging out with u and our friend.It’s not going to be the same without u 🙁 Rip buddy
Kit Strehlow says
So sad to hear the news. I think of the movies you would have made and the screenwriter you would have become.
Sarah Hargraves says
I know you will be keeping an eye on me everyday, I miss you best friend. <3