Steven Robinson

Steven Dwayne Robinson was born on March 7, 1959, in New York City to Mrs. Irene Robinson. As the first boy born into a large extended family of cousins, Steven was cherished and affectionately spoiled as a young child. Steven graduated from high school in New York City and chose not to pursue a college education. At the age of 16, while in high school, he began working weekends making deliveries for a local butcher shop. Although he was exposed to and encouraged to follow a corporate career path, he preferred a simpler, quieter way of life. He dedicated himself to learning the plumbing trade, mastering the craft, and in the late1980’s opening his own plumbing business. After spending his early years in New York City, Steven relocated to Chicago in 1986 at the age of 27, where he continued to build both his career and his future. As an entrepreneur, he was a teacher and mentor to many apprentices. His clients affectionately knew him as "Animal," and his outgoing personality was reflected in his voicemail greeting: "Hi, this is Animal. Leave a message." But to most, he was known as "Steve" yet in early years his family lovingly called him "Stevie". To date, those who knew him early on still lovingly called him "Stevie". To me, his sister, he was "Pooh" and we always ended our phone conversations with an audible kiss as our way of saying "Goodbye, we'll talk later". In 1986, Steven accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois under the leadership of Bishop Arthur M. Brazier. Steve was a man of faith and called the Lord his "Dad". In 1987, Steve married Francisca Sol'er, beginning a new chapter in his life centered on faith, family, and commitment. Through their marriage, he embraced the role of father to her two young children, whom he loved and raised as his own. Family remained at the heart of his life in the years that followed. One of Steven's most memorable qualities was his tremendous sense of humor. He loved to laugh and had a quick wit that could brighten any room. He was an avid football fan and beyond sports Steve had a curious mind and especially enjoyed National Geographic television programs about nature, wildlife and science. Steven had a compassionate heart and a deep concern for people who were impoverished, marginalized or overlooked. It was not uncommon for him to quietly purchase a meal for a homeless person or offer assistance to someone in need. Thoughtful and sensitive. He was loving in a world where men are supposed to be strong--especially big men like him. He wore his heart on his sleeve. Steven ascended to heaven to be with his "Dad" on May 7, 2026. His life was marked by faith, hard work, generosity, humor, and love. He leaves behind cherished memories that will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, especially his sister Valerie Norman-Gammon, daughter Carmen Rosa, brother-in-law Parker Gammon, nephew Stephan Hull, and special friends who will miss him dearly. His legacy of compassion, perseverance, and kindness will never be forgotten.

Steven Robinson

March 7, 1959 - May 7, 2026