Steve R. Lakotich

Steve R. Lakotich, age 73, of Lake Wales, FL, passed away on Sunday, December 11, 2016.

Steve was born in Joliet, IL on June 30, 1943 to the late Steve and Angela Lakotich. He graduated from Joliet Central High School and Owned Citgo City Service Gas Station in Crest Hill as well as Steve’s Classic Running Boards. He was a lineman and a member of the Electricians Union Local 176, founding member of ICYC, a former member of Rusty Runners Snowmobile Club, the Moose 300, the Ravens Club and the Croatian Cultural Club. Steve was Harbor Master at the Big Basin Marina in Channahon. He was a parishioner of St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church before moving to Florida and was a proud United States Marine Veteran. Steve enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, metal detecting and camping. Steve snowplowed with his dad and son for numerous years. He was a family man and a great friend to many who will be truly missed.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Carroll (nee Ward) Lakotich; children, Margaret Doty, Stephen (Victoria) Lakotich; grandchildren, Mandy (Nick) Hall, Jordan Bourg, Allison Doty, Stephenie Lakotich, Harley Lakotich, Emily Doty; great- grandchildren, Noah Hall and Aiden Comeau; siblings, John (Arlene) Kapella, Barbara Confer and Beverly (Norm) Wetherbee; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and his beloved companion, Holly.

Preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Angela (nee ) Lakotich; aunts, uncles and grandparents.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2016 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet with a memorial visitation from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service to be held in the funeral home chapel at 5:30 p.m. Interment of cremated remains will take place at a later date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.