Steve Uzelac

Steve Uzelac, 89, Silvis, passed away on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at his home. Visitation is from 11AM to 12PM Friday with prayer services at 12PM at Schroder Mortuary, Silvis. Burial immediately following at Greenview Memorial Gardens in East Moline, Il. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to United Township High School Booster Club, ProMedica Hospice or a charity of your choice.

Steve was born February 16, 1934, in Moline, the son of Peter “Pete” and Eva (Van Beveren) Uzelac. He married Angela Baele Beeson on July 11, 1969. He graduated from UTHS and WIU. Steve spent his life in education beginning his teaching career in 1957 and retiring from Woodrow Wilson. He was the coach of the Moline boys golf team for 17 years. His 1983 team took 2^nd place in the IHSA state finals. He also coached 7^th grade basketball and 9^th grade track at Woodrow Wilson Jr. High.

Steve was an avid golfer. He was most proud of his runner-up finish in the Serbian National Federation championship held in Milwaukee. He later won the Serbian Senior Championship twice once in Joliet and again in Phoenix. He also had runner-up finishes 3 times at Saukie and once at Mill Creek (Pinnacle) where he was Club Medalist in the old Velie Cup days. He finished his career at Golfmohr where he shot his age 45 times from the regular tees. He moved up to the Senior tees at age 80 where he then achieved or bettered it 278 more times.

At home he loved puzzles, yard work and building various projects in the basement. He enjoyed making fudge with black walnuts and gave it away to most everybody, attending UT athletic events and helping others.

Steve served as past treasurer for the Moline Teachers Education Association and was on the board of directors for Moline School District #40 Credit Union, serving in various capacities. He was a member and officer of Serbian Lodge #129 in Silvis.

Steve was a devoted family man. He unselfishly dedicated his days to bettering the lives of his wife, children and grandkids.

Survivors include his children, Matt (Dottie) Beeson, Davenport, Selena (Joe) DeGeeter, Davenport, Mark (Linda) Beeson, Milan, grandchildren, Shaley (Travis) Maher-Welvaert, Kaylyn Maher, Tanner (Sabrina) Beeson, Angie (Maria) Jarrin & family, sister Bonnie (Bill) Moore, Libertyville, IL, niece and nephew and their families.

In addition to his wife, Angela, he was preceded in death by his parents. May they rest in peace.

Steve’s family would like to give a heartfelt thanks to Michele Singleton, caregiver and ProMedica Hospice for all their compassionate and wonderful care in his home.