Final Salute

Stephen Eric Carlberg, 78, was born in Villa Park, Illinois, on February 22, 1947.

He died peacefully on October 13, 2025, at Thedacare Hospital in Waupaca, Wisconsin, from complications due to Alzheimer disease.

He graduated from Willowbrook High School in Villa Park, and one year later Steve enlisted in the United States Navy. He served as a Seabee for four years in Cuba, Antarctica, and a tour in Viet Nam. Steve worked for Illinois Bell Telephone for over 33 years.

After moving to St. Germain, Wisconsin, he became actively involved with the Lions. He was especially active with the Lions gun raffles for many years, this being one of his passions.

Steve enjoyed walking in the beautiful Northwoods and hunting birds with each of his beloved dogs. He was an avid Civil War lover, and he attended many meetings with his friends on this topic.

On May 27, 1995, he married Debra, his second wife, and together they had six children. He was a loving grandfather to each of his nine grandchildren. They will miss Steve’s antics very much.

He is survived by his wife, Deb; and his children, Michael, (Julie), Mark (Josephine), and Patrick (Anita). His children by a second marriage, John (Yuri), Matthew, and Megan; sister Kris Madjich; and his sister- in-law Sherry (Tom). His grandchildren; Sam, Ben, Will, Jackie, Tyler, Kiri, Steven, John, Jr., and Cristina. Steve will be missed by many cousins throughout our country, as well as many dear friends.

Steve was preceded in death by his at the parents, George and Louise.

He will be remembered in a celebration of life with full military honors in April at the Central Wisconsin Memorial Cemetery in Waupaca, Wisconsin.

We give special and grateful thanks for the exceptional loving care given to Steve in the last years of his life by the staff at the Dementia Veterans Hospital in King, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association.