Robert M. "Mike" Steinmacher, Jr.

Robert M. (Mike) Steinmacher, Jr., 78, of Louisville, KY, passed away peacefully at Kindred Hospital on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

Mike was born in Louisville to Robert M. (Bob) Steinmacher, Sr., and Mary Blackwell Steinmacher. Young Mike demonstrated an adept talent for mechanics from his early years, attended Ahrens Trade High School, and worked for decades repairing, restoring, building, and creating all manner of vehicles – from cars to boats to motorcycles to lawn mowers to earth movers -- pretty much anything that moved someone (or something) from here to there. A lover of vintage automobiles, teenage Mike could be found tinkering in his parents’ garage, where he met the love of his life, Virginia F. (Jen) Stidham. Mike and Jen married in May 1968 and remained happily married until his passing.

Mike’s career and passion for all things mechanical was only matched by his talent as an Automotive Body Technician, becoming an expert in structural alignment, welding, bodywork and painting. Nothing demonstrated his creativity and ability more than a five-year project which led to creation of a modern version of one of his favorite classic cars, the Chevrolet Nomad. Mike’s work and talent in creating the one-of-a-kind custom drew national attention with a feature published in Super Chevy magazine.

A devoted family man, Mike doted on his wife, celebrated and inspired his son, and was a loving caregiver for members of his family. Caring and compassionate but blessed with a talent and willingness to make people laugh, Mike persevered and kept smiling over the years despite chronic pain. Mike didn’t suffer fools, often bluntly assessing a situation and saying exactly what he thought.

When he wasn’t tinkering with any number of simultaneous projects, he could be found in his recliner, buried underneath the many pugs that he and Jen rescued over the years and watching classic TV Westerns like Gunsmoke. And if Mike wasn’t playing with their pugs, he was tussling with his “grand dog” dachshunds.

Mike was a life-long Roman Catholic and a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church.

Mike is survived by his wife Jen, his son Robert M. (Michael) Steinmacher, III, and his daughter-in-law, Bobi Bilz.

He was preceded in joining the Lord by his parents, Bob and Mary, and his twin brothers Ronald “Ronnie” Steinmacher and Donald “Donnie” Steinmacher.

It was Mike’s wish that no public service or visitation be held. Per his wishes, he was cremated.

Gifts or memorials may be made in Mike’s honor to either the Kentucky Humane Society or Bluegrass Pug Rescue.