Steven “Thor” Mason
June 22, 1958 – Aug. 2, 2001
After a lengthy battle with HIV related illnesses, Steve “Thor” Mason passed away at his home Aug. 2 with his partner of 18 years at his side.
Steve was a native of Chicago, born on the North Side, and he spent his youth growing up in the Elgin area. After studying cosmetology, Steve worked as a hairstylist in Dundee before moving into the city. In addition to cutting hair at various salons, Steve also worked as a doorman and/or bartender at the Bushes, Carol’s Speakeasy and Cell Block before his health required him to retire five years ago.
Steve Mason
Steve was an avid reader of science fiction and fantasy, which he followed up with model making and costume and makeup creations based on his favorite characters. Some of the impressive make up work at the theme parties at Carol’s was Steve’s work. Searching for items to add to his collection of models, action figures, books and prints was his favorite thing to do. Music was also a big part of his life, including dance music, musicals/soundtracks and some operas. Bodybuilding was another passion for Steve…he had been working out for 20+ years, which may have contributed to his maintaining good health during the many years he had been infected with HIV. Other activities that Steve enjoyed included dancing, hiking, camping, swimming and canoeing.
While not a very public person, Steve was very interested in community concerns. He was one of the first volunteers to participate in Howard Brown’s NIH studies on HIV/ AIDS in the mid 1980s and was also a model in Gay Chicago’s first safe-sex calendar.
Steve is survived by his partner, David Boyer, his mother Dorothea Mason, brother Cliff, sister in law Mary, nephew Cliff, niece Sarah, his family in Germany and his “family” of friends. There will be a private service and life celebration for his family and friends at his home Aug. 19. Friends may call (773) 743-8452 for details.