Steven R. Sandheinrich, age 52, of O'Fallon, born March 15, 1962, passed away June 16, 2014 after a valiant fight against cancer.

Steve wrote his own obituary; the following are his words:

Steve attended St. Martins of Tours in Washington Park, St. Clare School in O'Fallon, St. Henry's Prep School in Belleville, College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn., and SIUE.

The best six years of Steve's life were 1976-82 when he was in the seminary studying to be a priest before he realized he couldn't take the pressure. The two years at St. Thomas were the best of the best. To his dying breath, Steve had the greatest respect for the men who were ordained. As they say in the seminary, "The pay isn't that great, but the retirement plan is out of this world."

Steve would like to thank Dr. Samuel Burstein, MD and Dr. Peter Westervelt, MD who tried to save his life. Also he would like to thank the staff at Rosewood Care Center, and all the nurses at Illinois Oncology and St. Elizabeth's Infusion, Barnes Services, even though they always saved the longest, dullest needles for him.

Steve was always fortunate in his work at the Scott AFB Exchange, Magna Bank, and Schnuck's. Each place had a great group of people to work with, especially Schnuck's in O'Fallon. It took him 13 ½ years, but he had those people trained just the way he wanted them.

For entertainment, Steve enjoyed a trip to local casinos, where he liked his slots just like he liked his girls – loose. (just kidding)

In lieu of flowers, PLEASE make a donation to the building funds of St Clare Church or Holy Trinity Church. The parishioners of both parishes should thank the good Lord each day for Fr. Schultz and Fr. Deiters. They have too much to worry about instead of money.

Steve was preceded in death by two sets of wonderful grandparents, Anton and Agnes Sandheinrich, and Leo and Mary Prange. Also preceding him were Charlotte Sandheinrich, one of the best moms a guy could ever hope for. Also going before him was the best older sister ever, Sharon Sandheinrich.

Surviving are a great dad, Dennis Sandheinrich, who already earned his wings taking care of Charlotte, Sharon, and then Steve. Also surviving are younger brother and sister, Mike and Michelle. Steve is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins he wished he had gotten to know better. Of special note is his uncle Robert Prange, the coolest godfather the Almighty ever created, and a guy who had a passing resemblance to a young Elvis.

Visitation: Friends may call from 4:00 – 8:00 pm, Thursday, June 19, 2014 at St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, Shiloh, Ill., and after 10:00 am, Friday, June 20, 2014, at the church.

Funeral: Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am, Friday, June 20, 2014 at the church, with Rev. Alan Maes presiding. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Shiloh, Ill.

PS: Don't be sad Steve died, be glad he lived and have a good laugh in his memory.