Stephen Paul Toolen, Sr. 74, of Columbia, Illinois, born August 5, 1949 in St. Louis, Missouri, died on Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

Stephen was retired from the U.S. Government.  After his retirement he went to work as a custodian for the Columbia School District.  He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbia. Stephen loved to run, paint and draw,  He enjoyed his music and farming.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Emilie, nee Levy, Toolen; seven siblings, Thomas Toolen, Kitty Pisciotta, Jackie Toolen, Jean Linhares, Danny Toolen, Kevin Toolen, and Mickie Pruitt.

Surviving are his wife of 47 years, Gale Toolen, nee Ritter; his children, Heather (Scott) Heck of Columbia, IL and Stephen (Biancia) Toolen, Jr. of Millstadt, IL; four siblings, Mary Rose (Dennie) Fischer of Godfrey, IL, Patti Kratschmer of Godfrey, IL, Michael Toolen of Shiloh, IL, and Terry Toolen of Detroit, MI; seven grandchildren, Xander and Abbey Heck and Gianni, Brantley, Skylar, Declan, and Lennox Toolen; and an aunt, Ginna Brazill.  He was also a dear brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Friends may visit from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Braun Family Funeral Home, Columbia, Illinois.  Funeral services will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Stephen Krenz officiating.  In following Stephen's wishes a private cremation will follow.