Stephen Roland Kilburn

Stephen Roland Kilburn, 78, of Cary, passed away in Chapel Hill July 31, 2025 from a brief illness, with his family by his side.

Steve was born October 14, 1946 in Springfield, MO to Bedford Allen and Ellie Marie (Satterfield) Kilburn. The family moved to Tulsa, OK when he was quite young, so that was "home". He graduated from Will Rogers High School and earned a bachelor's degree in Biology from Tulsa University. He used his education and his love of the natural world to pursue a long career as a Federal employee, first with the US Geological Service in Phoenix, AZ, then the US Fish and Wildlife Service in Denver, CO, and finally with the EPA in the Research Triangle Park in North Carolina, where he spent over 20 years working to protect public health and the environment.

He met his wife when she joined the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a wide-eyed intern with a new Ecology degree. They worked together on various wildlife research projects and adventures in her year as an intern, at the end of which they decided to make their relationship (if not her job) permanent. A few years later they moved to North Carolina, where they became the proud parents of two daughters, who continue to make them proud to this day.

Sports were Steve's lifelong passion - mostly playing them in his youth and earlier adult life, with more emphasis on watching later. His high standards and drive for perfection were evidenced in hour after hour shooting baskets on the basketball court or (later) on the golf course - mostly the driving range - chasing the perfect swing. He was also a skilled teacher and coach of various sports (youth tennis coach, women's basketball coach). He spent a couple of years working as an assistant golf pro at Hilton Head, SC and Lochmere Golf Course in Cary, where he was often sought out by members for lessons. He loved teaching and encouraging others to find their own love for the game. One of his greatest joys was being part of his daughters' various sports. He was a constant, steady presence at practices and games, always on the sidelines with quiet pride and unwavering support.

Steve's college years were interrupted by a call from Uncle Sam - he was drafted into the Army to serve during the Vietnam War. Though he rarely spoke about his service, it remained an important chapter in his life. He believed it was his duty (and every citizen's duty) to support the country we have the privilege to live in. He served his country honorably in Vietnam, becoming a member of a small group of certified specialists in Combat Surveillance and Electronic Warfare.

Steve enjoyed being outdoors hiking, biking, and birding. He was a quiet man who loved his family deeply. He didn’t seek the spotlight, but those who knew him appreciated his steady presence, his kindness, and his wonderful smile. He loved the Lord and he held himself and his family to a high standard.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy, his daughters, Kelly and Casey, and his grandsons, Asher and Aidan, as well as extended family and friends who were touched by his life. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and his brother, Richard. A memorial service will be held on August 8, 2025, at 10 am at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Cary, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Nature Conservancy. He will be lovingly remembered.