Steven P. Gilson

Steven Paul Gilson, 63, of Galesburg, died at 2:56 a.m. Thursday, December 7, 2017 in OSF St. Mary’s Medical Center, Galesburg. Steve was born on March 26, 1954 in Galesburg, the son of Charles J. and Rita Jean (Sherwood) Gilson.  Steve is survived by his mother and loving step father, Rita and Philip Miller of Springfield; his significant other of 25 years, Julie Lynn Dawson of Galesburg; one son, Andrew Dawson of East Peoria; two daughters, Cassandra (James) Hunt and Christy (Greg) Wall both of Galesburg; seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  He is also survived by two brothers, Gregory (Sonoe) Miller of Minneapolis, MN and Richard (Paula) Miller of Sierra Leon, West Africa; and three sisters, Christine (Steve) Fowkes of Westminster, CO, Karen (Rich) Dunham of Alton, and Michele (Marc) South of St. Louis, MO.  He was preceded in death by his father and one great grandson, Jasper Newland. Steve worked for many years at Gates Rubber CO. and owned and operated a bait store and military surplus store in Galesburg for several years.  Steve last worked as a school bus driver for district #205.    Steve enjoyed working with his hands, especially woodworking and remodeling houses.  Steve was also a bit of a collector and loved Viking Glass. Visitation will be 2 to 3p.m. Monday, December 11, 2017 at Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorial services will follow at 3 p.m. with Rev. Darrell Grimm officiating.   A celebration of life will be in the Thomas Legacy Center at the funeral home immediately following the memorial service.  Memorials may be made to the Galesburg Public Schools Foundation.