Stephen J. "Steve" Runde (70) of St. Louis, formerly of Teutopolis

Stephen J. "Steve" Runde, fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, entered into rest on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at the age of 70, with his family at his side.

Steve was the devoted father of Stephanie (Joseph) Whealen, Melanie (Reid) Cranmer, and Emily Runde; loving Papa of Hayli, Lucas, Nora, Michael, Isla, and Lana; a special mention to Dana Runde, the loving mother of his children; cherished brother of Michael (Darlene) Runde, Judy (Bill) Martin, Jerry (Karen) Runde, Sue (Terry) Shannon, Kathy (the late Doug) Lundquist, Joe (Jeanette) Runde, and Jeff (Tonya) Runde; dear brother-in-law of Irvin Nagel; uncle, great-uncle, cousin, "bonus dad," and a dear friend to many in his lifetime. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Betty Runde.

Steve was a simple man, born and raised in Teutopolis, Illinois. A loyal son and supportive brother, second oldest of eight with a twin sister.

He graduated from University of Illinois with a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, and started his engineering career at the Saint Louis Water Department, then moving to the Saint Louis Street Department holding multiple positions from Street Commissioner to Traffic Commissioner, and ending his career as the Director of Saint Louis City Streets. A hard working man, devoted to his career, fair, understanding, and committed to improving the greater good.

While accomplishing professional success, Steve was also a loving husband, father to three daughters, and Papa to six grandchildren. Family was priority; his daughters and grandchildren were his pride, his joy, his entire world.

One of his true passions was helping others; spending years volunteering at Epiphany of Our Lord at fish frys and homecomings. A faithful friend and "father" to many, giving selflessly and expecting nothing in return.

Steve was a man of few words. Those who knew him didn't need a lot of words. His actions spoke for him.

Rest in Peace, our dearest Father and Friend.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, May 31, from 4-8pm at Hoffmeister Colonial Mortuary, 6464 Chippewa Street, 63109. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, June 1, at 10am at Epiphany of Our Lord Catholic Church, 6596 Smiley Avenue, 63139. Interment Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Steve's memory to the American Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated by his family.