Stephen M. Reis – O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Stephen M. Reis, 75, of Quincy, passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Stephen was born September 9, 1949, in Quincy, IL to Wilbert and Mary (Kuchman) Reis. Stephen’s journey began in Quincy, where he grew up and later met the love of his life, Sue Spilker. They were united in marriage on July 4, 1968, at the Adams County Courthouse. Their love was celebrated and reaffirmed over the years, with vow renewals at St. Francis Church in 1978 and Whispering Oaks Campground in 2018. Susie, his devoted wife, survives him, and together they built a legacy of love and family.

A proud father and grandfather, Stephen is survived by his two children, Michelle Zanger (Lloyd) and Jeff Reis (Laura), and special niece Joann Lubbert (Aaron). His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Joey Lord (Heather), Rachel Whitlock (Michael), Samantha Wolf (Rudolph), Reece Dieker (Megan), Dawson Lubbert, Elizabeth Reis (Ryan Caviness), Alyssa Lubbert, Stephen Reis (Jenna Lynch), James Reis, Jessica Brunenn (Casey), and Courtney Zanger (Josh Chapman), as well as his great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Ellie Brunenn, Payton Zanger, Karly, Kasey, Kally, and Kamry Leenerts, Olivia, Brandon, and Macy Whitlock, and Athena Wolf, who brought him immense joy. Stephen’s family circle also includes his brother, Danny Reis (Diana); sisters-in-law Sharon Kuhlman and Maggie Reis; and many more nieces and nephews. His beloved dog, Lilly, was a constant companion and source of happiness.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Robert “Bob” Reis, Rich Reis, and Gary Reis; one sister, Darlene Williams; two sisters in-law, Gayle Reis and Sharon Lord; three brothers in-law, Gail Williams, Ed Spilker, and Alex Wagner; and one nephew, Ronnie Williams.

A graduate of Quincy High School in 1967, Stephen’s work ethic was evident throughout his varied career. He began at Quincy Herald Whig in advertising, then became a familiar face as a route driver for Pepsi. He later served the community at Quincy Notre Dame in maintenance and concluded his professional journey as a bus driver for Quincy Transit Lines, retiring in 2014. His colleagues remember him for his reliability, warmth, and ever-present smile.

Beyond his professional life, Stephen was a man of many passions. An avid outdoorsman, he relished in fishing, mushroom hunting, and nurturing the wildlife in his backyard. His creative spirit shone through his hobby woodworking, where he crafted beautiful holiday decorations and large angels that brought joy to many. A devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan, Stephen also enjoyed the camaraderie of playing softball, pitching horseshoes, and playing euchre with friends. He had a special connection to State Street Bar and Grill, not only for its cuisine but because it was owned by his daughter and son-in-law.

Above all, Stephen’s heart belonged to his family. He was a fixture at his children’s, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s events, always offering his unwavering support. His presence at family gatherings will be profoundly missed, but his spirit of love and dedication will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

Friends and Family are invited to Steve’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home. Attendees are encouraged to wear sports attire to honor his love for the St. Louis Cardinals.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Blessed Sacrament Church in Quincy. Fr. Tom Meyer will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Tony Reis, Greg Reis, Richie Reis, Randy Reis, Ryan Reis, and Shane Reis.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, the Quincy Humane Society, or Quincy Notre Dame Soccer.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.