Steve Wheeler

Steve was a cool dude. Born on March 4, 1954, in Wichita, KS, to devoted parents Max and June, Steven Eugene Wheeler, journeyed through life on his own terms: freely, affectionately, and always with a sense of adventure. Alongside his brother Brad, he developed a lifelong passion for hard rock and a love for classic horror movies.

Steve’s daughter Audrey fondly remembers him teaching her how to ride a bike and how to eat oysters during their time together in Corpus Christi, TX.  His daughter Samantha will always be grateful for her time with Steve in St. Augustine, FL, which became his decades-long home. Learning to care for horses, and going on carriage rides were some of her favorite memories with Steve.

Steve met the love of his life, Jennifer, in Florida. They remained true partners, at work running the Crowbar and later at the Beach Club, in their friendships, caring for their animals, visiting family from the Midwest to the East Coast. Life simply wasn’t the same for Steve after Jennifer passed away. 

A few years ago, Steve returned to his childhood home in Kansas to be with his father at end of life. (He somehow managed to bring 92-year-old Max to a country music concert during this time!) Shortly after Max’s passing, Steve’s own health declined. Thankfully, he had time for one unforgettable final trek to Connecticut where he and his beloved cats joined daughter Samantha and his granddaughters Taylor and Hanna for more memory making. Their shared ink, Vida Loca, captures their bond beautifully.

Steve passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jennifer Wheeler; his father, Max Wheeler; and his mother, June Wheeler. He is survived by his brother Brad Wheeler and sister-in-law Barbara Wheeler; sister-in-law Kathy Hofslien-Moreno; his daughters Audrey Savikas and Samantha Layher; son-in-law Andrew Savikas; and his cherished grandchildren Taylor Layher, Hanna Layher, Adler Savikas, and Ada Savikas. He leaves behind an aunt, nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends, all who will miss him dearly. Steve is also survived by his two beloved cats, Thomas and Turtle Boy, who remained faithful companions to him.

In accordance with his wishes, Steve will be cremated, and his ashes will be joined with Jennifer’s in the ocean, together again, where they belong.

Steve was smart, funny, and truly one of a kind. His life was never ordinary, and neither was he. All in all, he was a cool dude who will be greatly missed.

We are beyond grateful to the home health and hospice teams at Trinity Health At Home for the incredible care they provide provided Steve in his last month of life. Additionally, we want to express our gratitude to Quilts That Care, who came together to provide Steve with the most beautiful horse-themed quilt. He treasured it.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steve’s honor to www.quiltsthatcare.org, an organization who provides homemade quilts to those fighting cancer.