Robert Stephen “Steve” Finley, age 96, of St. Petersburg, Florida, took the next step in his life’s journey on September 22, 2022 passing peacefully, with family by his side. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 12, 1926, and at a young age moved to Beloit, Wisconsin where he was raised. He enlisted in the United States Navy immediately after completing high school to serve as a radioman during World War II. He was called back to duty for the Korean War. He was very proud of his time with the Navy and the relationships he developed with his shipmates lasted for decades. After serving his country Steve started in the automobile finance industry leading to a lifelong career in finance and banking.
A man of many passions, Steve loved to travel the country with his wife and he was blessed to have visited all 50 states. He held a deeply rooted love for all things Irish and visited Ireland many times with family members. He also relished his trips to the Southwest, taking in the beauty of Arizona and New Mexico. Steve was an avid golfer and one of his greatest achievements in the game was scoring a hole-in-one. He also enjoyed boating, fishing, road trips, investing, exploring new cuisines, and any good Chinese buffet.
He will be welcomed into heaven by his wife Faye Finley who preceded him in 2013. Steve is survived by his daughter, Judi Farmer; sons, Steve (Fran) Finley and Tim (Lynn) Finley; and daughter Lori (Doug) Thomas; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. His love for family ran deep and he always enjoyed their visits.
Steve outlived all of his siblings, their spouses and son-in-law Earl Farmer. There will be a great celebration as he arrives in heaven. As another of our Greatest Generation passes, we need to honor his hard work, integrity, service to our country, and a strong devotion to his Catholic faith. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him. A private memorial service will be held in the future.
The family also wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to many of the staff members at the Freedom Square Rehabilitation facility in Seminole, Florida who provided care and comfort for Steve in his final days.
Becky Cox
September 26, 2022, 2:42 pm
Loved your dad. His wit and humor were a delight to be around. But I was most impressed with his knowledge of almost all things that interested him. His poems were a joy to read. I never was bored listening to his life’s stories.
He will be missed greatly but I’m so glad I was lucky enough to meet him.
Jeff & Kelli Jones
September 26, 2022, 2:48 pm
Uncle Steve, you and your siblings were a blessing from God to all of us. Lay in rest and in peace in the arms of the Lord, and continue giving us strength and direction for those of us who have been shown the way through your love for all. God bless.
Jeff & Kelli Jones
September 26, 2022, 2:51 pm
Uncle Steve, you and your siblings have been a blessing for us all. May you rest in peace and in the arms of the Lord and give us strength and guidance for those of us who found direction in your ways of love on earth. God bless.
Mardy yonikas
September 26, 2022, 5:47 pm
What a beautiful obituary. Loving children who watched over steve in his last days. God bless the family.
Mardel Yonikas
September 26, 2022, 5:50 pm
Beautiful obituary and memory of Steve’s life. Love to the family members who took such wonderful care of steve. May he join his family in heaven.
James Kowalczyk
September 26, 2022, 6:53 pm
Heaven now is brighter, though this world has lost its light. I will miss saving chocolate brownies, cookies, etc. and roast beef wraps, also our breakfast times. my prayers are with his family at this sad time. Jim from Beacon Street Ministries Inc.
Bill and Sandie
September 26, 2022, 7:32 pm
Beautiful obituary Our prayers to the family