Michael E. Stedman, age 57, of Gardner and formerly of Joliet, Illinois, passed away Monday, April 26, 2021 at Heritage Health in Dwight. Born August 8, 1963 in Joliet, Illinois, Michael Eugene is a son of Jean (nee Hannah) Stedman of Gardner and the late James Thomas “J.T.” Stedman. He was raised in Joliet and graduated from Joliet Central High School. Following graduation, Mike went on to honorably serve in the United States Navy before entering into a career with the United States Postal Service, where he was a letter carrier. He was a member of the American Postal Workers Union, and in his free time enjoyed motorcycles and go-karts. Mike was also an accomplished writer and a published author. One who would help anyone in need, when he was able, Mike loved his family and friends dearly, and cherished his dog, Boris. Survivors include his mother, Jean; siblings: Dorothy Stedman (Linda) of Godley; Bob (Debbie) Stedman of Tennessee; and Debbie (Ken) Knepper of Braidwood; and nieces and nephews: Holly Smith (Cody Kuehni) of Coal City, Frank Staats (Marissa) of Emington, Jeremy Smith of Bolingbrook, and Bob, Jr. (Sarah) Stedman of Tennessee. Mike was preceded in death by his father, J.T. (2007); one sister, Barbara Smith (2020); and one nephew, James Smith (2020). The family received friends for a visitation at Reeves Funeral Home in Coal City on Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. until time of funeral service, 1:00 p.m. Those wishing to participate in the services virtually joined the livestream at 1 p.m., Saturday. A link for the event was available on Mike’s memorial page. Burial followed in Oak-wood Cemetery, Wilmington. Serving as pallbearers: Ken Knepper, Cody Kuehni, Frank Staats, Ron Smykowsky and Keith Smith. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the guestbook, upload photographs and share Mike’s memorial page online through social media by logging on to: www.ReevesF uneral.com/obituary/Michael- Stedman Funeral services and arrangements were made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd., Coal City.