Merna Lee Steidinger

Merna Lee Steidinger, age 88, of Normal, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Following her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in Merna’s honor.

Calvert & Metzler Memorial Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Merna was born in Bloomington on August 10, 1937, to Albin and Emma (Enghausen) Neubauer. She married LeRoy Steidinger on December 15, 1957, in Sibley, Illinois. LeRoy preceded her in death on May 10, 2012.

She is survived by her children: DeDe Dyson of Normal; Greg (Cindy) Steidinger of Whitehouse, Ohio; and Jeff Steidinger of Bloomington. She also leaves behind four grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and her siblings: Allen Neubauer of Saybrook, IL; Delmar (Wahnetta) Neubauer of Bloomington; and Wilma Stapp of North Carolina. Merna was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Kevin Steidinger, one brother, and three sisters.

Merna dedicated 23 years of her career to Growmark, from which she retired in 1997. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. Merna will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.