Steve Burkhalter

Paul Steven Burkhalter “Steve” passed away December 16, 2025, at Cedar Ridge Health & Rehab in Lebanon, Ill., following a lengthy illness, surrounded by his mother and sisters.

Steve grew up in a military family and moved often as a child. The family spent a few years in El Paso, TX before moving to Tehran, Iran. Steve was a member of the final graduating class of Tehran American High School in 1978. In February of 1979, he joined the Army where he was stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA as a Military Police. After serving three years in the Army, Steve relocated to Fayetteville, NC. In 1987, he moved to San Diego, CA where he worked as a maintenance man for several apartment complexes. He was proud to coach Recreational Girls Softball throughout the 1990s in California. He returned to Fayetteville, NC where he worked in residential maintenance for military base housing. He was an avid competitive bowler and received several 300 rings, until his health issues led him to move to Illinois to be closer to his family. He was the big-hearted, loving son, brother, friend, and uncle. His many nieces and nephews lovingly called him “Grumpy Steve.”

He is survived by his mother Carol, nee Gardner, Burkhalter; siblings Stephanie (David) Page, Cheryl (Keith) Huster, Vonnie (Rob) Calcagno, Rhonda (Robert) Snow; Stepmother Shirley Jones, stepbrothers Joe (Jen) Ambrose, Tom Ambrose and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Freddie Walter Burkhalter, brother Keith Michael Burkhalter, and biological father John P. Jones. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to American Kidney Fund. Online condolences may be shared at www.wfh-ofallon.com.

The family will hold private services. Interment will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo.