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Steven Darrell Campbell
( January 25, 1951 - March 13, 2023 )
Steven Darrell Campbell, age 72, of Balsam Drive in Lincolnton, passed away on Monday, March 13, 2023.

The family will receive friends on Monday, March 20th at 11:00 am at Boger City Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life service will be held at noon, with Pastor Bill Bigham officiating.

Steven was born January 25, 1951 in Robbinsville, North Carolina to the late Leroy and Evangeline Parker Campbell. He was dedicated in his service to the community - serving in the National Guard and retiring as Battalion Chief of the City of Charlotte Fire Department. He retired from the family business, Campbell & Sons Machining Co., on December 31, 2022, serving 15 years as president of the company and carrying on the legacy of his father who established the business in 1972.

He is survived by his wife, Fritzi Campbell of the home; daughter, Michelle Campbell of Charlotte, NC; brother, Ronnie Campbell (and wife Carol) of Troutman, NC; and his granddaughter, MyKala Smalley of Charlotte, NC. In addition, he is survived by a step-granddaughter, Olivia Downey, and her parents Joey and Sarah Downey.

Steve loved people and loved the Lord. He was dedicated to his marriage, leading a life of love and devotion with his wife and closest companion, Fritzi. Steve took great pleasure in singing (especially Gospel Hymns), and discovered that Fritzi had a wonderful singing voice as well. He and Fritzi pursued this passion together by singing in church and frequenting karaoke on Saturdays.

Steve was a brave person and demonstrated his style of confidence one special Sunday morning. Steve sang a solo in church and unexpectedly invited his wife-to-be Fritzi onstage, proposing to her in front of the full congregation.

Steve was incredibly proud of his daughter, Michelle, and granddaughter, Mykala. This was apparent to anyone who saw his eyes light up when they were present. He never failed to bring them joy with his amazing smile, support, and love.

Steve was a loving and dedicated leader in many aspects, but notably in his service to the Charlotte Fire Department as well as carrying the tradition of leading his father’s machining business. He supported his father’s endeavors of building Campbell & Sons machining for 50 years, and ultimately served as president of the company for the last 15 years.

Steve made an impact on whomever he met, enriching lives where he was involved. His employees truly loved and respected him, describing him as “the kindest boss they ever had the pleasure of working for”. His impact with the Charlotte Fire Department is equally evident, and he carried a rapport and relationship with his colleagues years after his retirement.

Steve was a bold Christian who loved to tell others of his salvation. He was deeply proud of his mountain heritage, and this was evident in his love for Gospel Music. He found solace in the mountains and enjoyed nothing more than looking out at Lake Santeetlah and praising God for His gifts and majesty.

He wanted to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, and lived this dream in 2018 when he made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and reaffirmed his baptism in the Jordan River.

Steve was known for his smile, his friendliness, and his unique sense of humor. He led a wonderful life and leaves behind a legacy that we all admire and will not soon forget.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Boger City Baptist Church, Building Fund, 2201 E. Main Street, Lincolnton, NC 28092.

Posted on 17 Mar 2023


 

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