Steven A. Pinkley

Steven A. Pinkley, 66, of Cary, IL, passed away in early March, 2026. Born in Elgin, IL on May 13, 1959 to Thomas and Joyce Pinkley, Steve built a life defined by hard work, craftsmanship, loyalty, and a goofball spirit that could light up any room.

Steve attended Barrington High School, where he was an accomplished wrestler. During those years he forged lifelong friendships—many of which grew to feel more like family.

After graduating, Steve began his career at Buckeridge Door Co. in Arlington Heights, where he quickly earned a reputation as an intensely hardworking and dependable man. He then brought that same dedication to the family business at Master Hitch in Palatine where his skill, persistence, and pride in a job well done became hallmarks of his work.

When he wasn’t working, Steve could most often be found in his shop at home creating fine woodworking pieces. He loved building with his hands, solving problems, and teaching others who wanted to learn new skills. Whether installing a garage door, building a deck, or crafting outdoor furniture for friends and family, Steve took great pride in helping others and creating something lasting.

Away from home, Steve was an avid saltwater and freshwater fisherman. He cherished his trips to deer camp in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where he spent time hunting, listening to music, and enjoying the company of close friends. His love of audiobooks began during his long commutes throughout Chicago’s northwest suburbs and continued on the long drives north to deer camp. He especially enjoyed sharing highlights from his latest listens and trading recommendations with others.

Steve was a true animal lover. His family knew when he arrived home by the loud and enthusiastic greetings he gave the family pets. Among those fondly remembered were his pot-bellied pig, Ed, and his English bulldog, Peaches—both of whom may have snored just as loudly as Steve himself.

Steve was many things, but above all he was known as a devoted friend. He never made excuses for his friends—only time for them. Whether lending out tools, offering expert advice, or showing up with a helping hand, Steve was always there when someone needed him.

As we remember Steve and reflect on his life, it would be impossible not to mention his gift for storytelling—especially his well-known tendency for embellishment (affectionately referred to as “The Steve Pinkley Exaggeration Factor.”). Our loved ones live on through our memories and stories. It is our greatest wish that you continue telling Steve’s stories, sharing a laugh, and keeping his memory alive. Feel free to embellish—we know he would approve.

And as his stories continue to be told and retold, we will remember the man who loved to tell them.

He is our Papa. And we love him.

Steve is survived by his children, Tasha (Cory Rogers) Pinkley, Alexa (Tyler) Malson, Joe (Becky Breunig) Pinkley; his siblings, Tom (Wendy) Pinkley, Bill (T) Pinkley, Patti (Al) Young, Susie (Gary) Hane, Scott (Christine) Pinkley, Bob (Jenny) Pinkley, John (Stacey) Pinkley; and by many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas E. Pinkley Jr. and Joyce I. Pinkley (née Hart).

A Celebration of Steve’s Life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Friends and family are encouraged to share photos and memories of Steve by uploading them to the guestbook or by emailing them to steveallenpinkley@gmail.com.

The same email address may also be used by anyone wishing to contact the family or receive updates regarding the upcoming Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to any charity in his memory. The following are a few for consideration:

· Senior Services Associates

· Chicago English Bulldog Rescue

· Illinois English Bulldog Rescue