Eulogy for Steven “Steve” Wicklow

We are gathered here today to honor and celebrate the life of Steven Wicklow—a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering love for those around him. While today is a difficult day, I know Steve wouldn’t want us to focus on sadness. He would want us to remember the joy he brought into our lives, the laughter he shared, and the lessons he taught us.

Steve was born on December 13, 1965, in Louisville, Kentucky, to Richard and Martha Wicklow. From an early age, he was a light in the lives of his parents and his sister, Stacy. His kindness was evident in everything he did. He grew up knowing the importance of hard work and treating people with respect—values that guided him in every part of his life.

He carried those lessons with him when he attended Seneca High School and later the University of Kentucky, where he earned a degree in Business Management. But for Steve, education was more than just about getting a degree—it was about learning how to build something meaningful, something that would last. That’s exactly what he did when he and his brother, John, founded Wicklow Bros. Construction Co. in 1996. Together, they built a company not just with bricks and steel, but with honesty, trust, and care for their employees. Under Steve’s leadership, the business grew to serve five states, employing over 100 people. But if you asked him what he was most proud of, he wouldn’t have talked about profits or expansion; he would have talked about the people. He believed in giving people opportunities, in treating his employees like family, and in doing what was right, even when it was difficult.

Of course, Steve’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted father to Michael and Mikayla, and later, a loving father-in-law to Greg. Nothing made him happier than watching his children grow, succeed, and build their own lives. He led by example, teaching them not only the importance of hard work but also the value of honesty, faith, and kindness. And of course, we can’t forget Buddy—his loyal golden retriever and hiking companion. Anyone who knew Steve knew how much he loved that dog. They were inseparable, exploring trails and sharing quiet moments in nature.

Steve’s passions extended beyond work and family. He loved the outdoors, and every year, he looked forward to his fishing trips to Michigan with his best friend, David Foster. He found peace in nature, joy in the simple things, and strength in his faith. A proud Christian, Steve was a dedicated member of Fort Pickens Baptist Church. Though he was baptized later in life, his belief in Christ was unwavering, and he lived his life in a way that reflected that faith—by treating others with love, compassion, and respect.

Those of us who knew Steve were blessed to witness his kindness, his humor, and his incredible generosity. He had a way of making everyone feel valued, of bringing people together, of reminding us all that we are capable of more than we think. His laughter could light up a room, his advice could ease any worry, and his presence brought comfort to those who needed it most.

One of Steve’s favorite sayings was, “Can’t never could do anything.” It was his way of reminding us that doubt holds us back more than failure ever could. He believed in pushing forward, in trying, in giving our best even when the odds seemed against us. And that’s exactly how he lived his life—with courage, with faith, and with an unshakable belief in the goodness of people.

While we grieve today, let us also celebrate. Celebrate the man who shaped so many lives, who built more than just buildings—he built relationships, he built a legacy of kindness, he built a family that will carry his spirit forward. Let’s remember him not with sorrow, but with gratitude. Gratitude for the time we had with him, for the love he gave so freely, and for the memories that will stay with us forever.

Steve, we will miss you more than words can say. But we will honor your life by living as you did; with kindness, with integrity, and with love. Thank you for everything.