Steven Mark Kineman

   Steven Mark Kineman, born June 3rd, 1959 in Lansing, MI to Jack and Lavinia Kineman, passed away unexpectedly at his home on August 21st, 2026.

   Steven learned the art of preparation during his formative years as a Boy Scout, and he enjoyed playing tennis throughout high school. He met Marie McLaury in French class at Hastings High School, and later proposed to her using a kitten they named Gage. The two married in an intimate ceremony on December 27th, 1982. Following their graduation from Grand Valley State University, Steven and Marie spent the first few years of their marriage living on Mackinac Island. Steven worked as a manager at the Grand Hotel and spent his free time exploring the Great Lakes through scuba diving and sailboarding. Once they moved to Charlotte, Steven supported his family through a career in logistics management.

   Steven and Marie had four children, to whom he passed on his loves: traveling, motorcycling, making music, and community service. Steven enjoyed exploring the world and the sharing of cultures. He traveled on mission trips to Haiti, Nicaragua, Chile, Costa Rica, Bolivia, and Jamaica, often bringing his children. Throughout the years, the family hosted many exchange students; most notably, José from Spain, who became part of the Kineman family, so much so that Steven and Marie lived in Spain during the winter of 2026. Steven’s passion was riding on two wheels “chasing the end of that long white line.” He motorcycled across the country, putting thousands of miles on his beloved bike. Steven loved riding solo, with his biker friends, and with his wife and children.

   Growing up, Steven played violin in the Hastings High School orchestra, and continued playing throughout his life. He enjoyed sharing his love of music with his kids, supporting their musical learning through early age guitar lessons, and playing together as a family at church and community dinners. Steven was dedicated to his community. Through the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, he was a part of the Methodist Marvels, who brought uplifting music to local nursing homes. Steven also loved swimming, and was deeply involved with the Charlotte Aquatic Center. By starting the H2Orioles organization with Sarah Cool, he ensured the passing of the millage that saved the aquatic center. He also trained to Master Swimmer level and swam many open-water events, including the Big Shoulders in Chicago. He officiated swim meets with the Central Michigan Swim Officials Association (CMSOA) and dedicated countless hours to coaching and managing the Charlotte Dolphins Special Olympics Swim Team.

   Steven Kineman is survived by his wife, Marie Kineman (McLaury); his children, Maizie (Marco Antonio, daughter Xylona Rocio) Alcantara, Zephie (Joshua) Hillard, and Bram Kineman; his sisters, Rhonda (John Houck and son PFC Oskar Houck, USMC) Kineman, and Melinda (Michael) Rodgers. Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Lavinia Caroyln Kineman and Jack Lavern Kineman.

   An open house-style celebration of life will be held at Steven’s home in Charlotte (388 N. Wheaton Road) on Saturday, August 29th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

   In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to the Charlotte Dolphins Special Olympics Swim Team by contacting Cheryl Sheridan at sheridjcy@aol.com. Notes of memories and condolences can be sent to condolences4steven@gmail.com

   To view Steven’s obituary online or to leave public condolences, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

   The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.