Jeffrey Staes

Jeffrey "Jeff" Staes, 76, passed away peacefully at home on July 31, 2026, with his loving wife by his side. Born on March 27, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Jeff was the beloved son of the late Robert and Elaine Staes.

On April 12, 1969, Jeff married the love of his life, Donna Marie Girate, at St. Gertrude Church in Franklin Park, Illinois. Together they built a life filled with love, devotion, and countless cherished memories, sharing more than 57 beautiful years of marriage.

Jeff dedicated his career to his craft as a machinist with Reliance Tool in Elgin, where he worked faithfully for 32 years. He retired on his birthday in 2015, marking both a milestone in his life and the beginning of a well-earned retirement.

From an early age, Jeff had a passion for motorcycles. Even as a little boy, he was fascinated by them, and that love remained with him throughout his life. He also found great joy on the water, spending countless hours boating, and enjoyed the creativity and satisfaction of woodworking. Retirement gave Jeff the opportunity to fully embrace the hobbies he loved most, creating many cherished memories doing the things that brought him happiness.

In addition to his loving wife Donna, Jeff is survived by his children, Christina Ann (Mike) Bashonski, Steven Michael Staes, Michael Robert (Emily) Staes; grandchildren, Jacob Bashonski and Ava Staes.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Lynn.

Services will be held privately by Jeff’s family.