Steven D. Rye, 70, of Fairview Heights, IL, born Saturday, November 22, 1952, in Wood River, IL, passed away Monday, March 27, 2023 at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, IL.
Steve started his work as a leather artisan in 1968. At that time, he knew it would be his life’s work. He was a treasured member of the Maplewood, MO business community. Everyone who knew him called him friend.
Steve was energetic and full of life. He was a fun-loving guy who enjoyed spending time with his grandkids – most especially these past few years.
Surviving are his:
- Wife, Kay A. nee Rettle, Rye of Fairview Heights, IL
- Parents, Jack and Stella Elaine, nee Humphress, Rye of Wood River, IL
- Children:
- Sarah (Tim) Rye Bliss of St. Louis, MO
- Jesse (Minnie) Rye of O’Fallon, IL
- Annie (Sam Overturf) Rye of Fairview Heights, IL
- Sister, Susan (John) Mendenhall of Bloomington, IL
- Brother, Scott (Dee) Rye of Murfreesboro, TN
- Grandchildren, Astrid, Mirasol, Stoddard Bliss and Lucas Rye.
There will be a time of Celebration and Remembrance and an Open House Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 1-4 pm in Maplewood, MO at the Focal Point. Please refer to this link for details https://fb.me/e/3DJpxhFl1
Thank you so much for everyone’s support during this difficult time. Flowers are welcome, or you may choose to make a donation to help with final expenses through this website: www.stevendrye.com.
15 Comments To "Steven D. Rye"
#1 Comment By Brenda Kurtz-Schulte On April 4, 2023 @ 6:15 pm
Oh Kay, I am so sorry about Steve. He was a master craftsman!!! Love his work.
#2 Comment By Kay On April 5, 2023 @ 2:50 pm
Thank you Brenda!
#3 Comment By Bonnie Schaefer On April 4, 2023 @ 6:53 pm
I wish hugs could take away the hurt. You were blessed with him, & a new plan awaits. Know you are loved! He was just right for you! ♥️
#4 Comment By Kay On April 4, 2023 @ 10:58 pm
what a sweet thing to say! You are so right about he being just right for me. Hugs absolutely help!
#5 Comment By Elizabeth Barnhart On April 5, 2023 @ 6:43 pm
Kay,
The entire team at Maplewood Deli offer our condolences and prayers for you and your family. I always looked forward to Steve’s visits as we chatted while he picked up his chocolate chip cookies. We will all miss Steve and will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
#6 Comment By kay rye On April 9, 2023 @ 12:13 pm
I sincerely thank you Elizabeth. Steve’s morning trip for cookies was a much talked about daily event. I’ll be down to see you soon.
#7 Comment By Gaylene (Gillson) Kinder On April 6, 2023 @ 9:16 am
I am a classmate of Steve’s, AHS class of 70’. I am sorry for your loss. I pray for God’s comfort and peace during this difficult time. 🙏
#8 Comment By kay rye On April 9, 2023 @ 12:14 pm
Thank you so much. We love the prayers!
#9 Comment By Greg Jones On April 6, 2023 @ 12:11 pm
Steve helped me so much while I lived in the St. Louis area. He gave me part time work and I learned a lot. I miss him so much and figured he would out live me. My condolences to Kay, Jess, Annie, and all his family and friends. As long as my brain and body will allow I’ll never forget you. RIP Steve.
#10 Comment By Kay Rye On April 9, 2023 @ 12:16 pm
Greg, we will never forget you and your good friendship with Steve. You guys go way back. We missed you when you moved to the west coast. But I know you both kept in contact pretty regularly despite the distance.
#11 Comment By Nikki Schaefer On April 8, 2023 @ 1:09 am
There is no doubt that Steve Rye was one of a kind, everything he did and said was memorable for me….the time I did spend around him was always amusing and I loved his quiet way of navigating everything. A master craftsman and wise soul who I’ll look forward to connecting with on the other side ♥️ sending love and hugs to all my family ♥️
#12 Comment By kay rye On April 9, 2023 @ 12:17 pm
Amusing and uniquely wise. Cousin, you got his essence for sure! Love you!
#13 Comment By Jan Vehlewald On April 12, 2023 @ 12:38 pm
Kay, I just saw this. We are so surprised and sorry. We have many things from the shop, and I am fortunate to have some of Steve’s one of a kind creations. The jacket, alligator belt (that he designed just for me), and the fabulous fringed deerskin bag are treasures. We are proud to have spent time hearing his stories, and his knowledge.
We look forward to seeing you in the future as you and the family carry on his legacy.
Sincerely, Don and Jan Vehlewald
#14 Comment By Kay Rye On April 14, 2023 @ 8:33 pm
Thank you Jan and Don. Yes, I remember that belt!
#15 Comment By Michael Klemme On May 25, 2023 @ 9:49 am
Steve was a great friend both home and Kay!
I known Steve for forty years!
He was a wonderful person!
He’ll be missed Kay!
Michael Klemme