Steven L. Seal, 78, of East Peoria, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025 at his home with his family by his side.

He was born August 25, 1946, in Sneedville, TN, to the late Kyle and Ruby (Byrd) Seal, the fourth of twelve children. He was also preceded in death by eight siblings, including six brothers, Wayne, Morris, Dee, Earl, Victor, and Tim, and two sisters, Joyce Ann and Katie.

He married Vickie Delores Masters in Peoria on Oct. 7, 1972. She survives. Also surviving are four children: Stephanie (Matt Fields) Volz, Stephan (Sue) Volz, Stacie (Tom) Flatley, and Victoria (BJ) Aberle; 11 grandchildren: Andy, Aaron, Sarah, Zach, Katie, Alex, Nick, Sabrina, Tori, Elli, and Nadia; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and friends. Siblings Mack, Dale (Janet), and Betty Wolfe also survive.

Steve owned and operated Seal Heating and Cooling in East Peoria for over 40 years before retiring.

Steve had a larger-than-life personality and never met a stranger. He was outgoing and enjoyed people, making whatever room he was in more lively. He loved his family deeply, and spending time with his grandchildren was his greatest joy. Steve enjoyed playing golf and basketball in his younger years and watching all types of sports throughout his life, especially NASCAR, golf, and football. He also enjoyed playing cards, walking in the woods, and watching nature shows and game shows. After retirement, you could find him working in the yard most days or keeping busy with other DIY projects, as he had knowledge and skill in many trades.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 pm on Tuesday, Jan. 7th, at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington. Memorial services and burial will be held at a later date in Sneedville, TN.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Easter Seals or the Illinois Spina Bifida Association.