David Charles Stevenson (1971-2026)
David Charles Stevenson, known lovingly as Dave, left us on March 4, 2026, after a difficult, months-long battle with heart failure. When his body could work no more, he left for the next adventure, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Dave’s family would like to thank all the medical professionals at Bluhm Heart Hospital, Northwestern Memorial, Chicago, for their guidance, understanding, and compassion, which greatly supported his family.
Dave was born to Charles Stevenson (died 1994) and Darlene Stevenson in Abington, PA, on March 2, 1971. Not long after the family moved to California, they welcomed a new sister, Jen. The next family move brought them to the Chicago area. Dave’s youth included the joys of Big Wheels and Hot Wheels. Many of us can imagine the very same races down the driveway with either toy. Dave’s hobbies became refined to include an obsession with Legos. After Legos came gaming, and well, we all know how much Dave loved to game in some fashion. He graduated from Palatine High School, where he was a member of the marching band, playing the tuba. He was an oom-paa-paa kind of guy.
Post high school studies included classes at the University of Illinois, Northern Illinois University (where he met his wife, Heather), and Harper College. He worked in several fields before settling in with Trondent Development, which became like his second family, spending 27 years with them as Director of Client Solutions.
Anyone who knows Dave knows he made friends everywhere. His solid group of childhood friends stuck with each other through all sorts of life events. This group of friends was there at all stages of life—high schooler, college kid, family man. Dave’s friends always had his back.
Dave married Heather Kilroy in 1995 and is survived by her and their two children, Alan Stevenson (Senior at Illinois State University) and Nora Stevenson (Junior at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities). Dave is also survived by his mother, Darlene Stevenson (Elgin, IL); his sister, Jen (Will) Jameson (St. Johns, FL), and their children, Sarahbelle, Chase, Faith, Elise, and Lillianna.
Services will be held on Friday, March 13, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Rd, Huntley, IL. Visitation is 9-10 am, followed by Catholic mass at 10 am. After mass (around noon), the family invites you to join them for a luncheon, also at the church, where more Dave stories can be shared and enjoyed.
In lieu of flowers, Dave’s family is asking that you consider donating to Brookfield Zoo’s Tribute and Memorial Program: https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/donate to donate online. Please be sure to select the "Make your gift a tribute" option before completing the donation form. If preferable, you can also mail a check to the Chicago Zoological Society, Attn: Development Department, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513. Please include a note indicating the purpose of the gift.
I have fought the good fight.
I have finished the course.
I have kept the faith.
2 Timothy 4:6-8
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We are so sorry for your loss. It was a privilege to be with him at the end. Cheers to his amazing life and family memories.
I remember the fun poker games that Dave was kind enough to invite me to when I was his new brother in law while we were still in Chicagoland. Dave was always so welcoming. He had a way to tell a story that captured peoples attention. He was a great dad and and family man and raised to terrific kids.
Dave was an amazing brother! I am so grateful I got to be his sister. He was so great at sharing stories, letting me win at monopoly and was so loving to our family. I am blessed to have seen such a strong Christian faith in him. He knew Jesus and through all his fight trusted that no matter the outcome Jesus was right there with him. He saw how strong Job’s faith was in the Bible and told me his faith would stay strong like Job. Dave will so be missed here. I am looking forward to seeing him again healed and happy in heaven. “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.” Jeremiah 17:7 KJV
On behalf of all 5 jameson kids they want to let their aunt and cousins know they are praying for them and thought Dave was an amazing fun uncle who was so kind and loving. He will be so missed. Praying always for his family for peace in this difficult time. ✝️“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”✝️ Numbers 6:24-26 KJV
My prayers and condolences to the Dave Stevenson Family. I met Dave several times , he was a very happy and pleasant man .I am sure he will be missed and remembered by everyone with whom he came in contact. May God Bless him and his family.
Dave was a warrior inspiring us all with his courage love and resolve