Gary P. Steffens

Gary P. Steffens, age 76, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, April 22, 2024.  Gary was always true to himself and his beliefs.  One of his mottos was if you are not ten minutes early, you are late.  So naturally he passed in the early hours of the day.

Gary was born in Appleton, Wisconsin on July 25, 1947.   He grew up in Kaukauna, Wisconsin and graduated from Kaukauna High School in 1965. He enlisted in the Army in 1967. The three years spent in the Army brought him on many worldly adventures.   He was extremely patriotic and loved his country.  Always learning and growing, education was important to Gary.  He earned his master’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.

On September 25, 1970, Gary married Berne (LaVerne) Schultz.  Together they built a beautiful life, family, and celebrated 53 years of love.

Gary was a highly energetic, creative, and driven individual with a larger-than-life loveable personality.  He was genuine in his values and spirit, and his ideals and actions were always aligned.   He was unapologetically authentic, honest with himself and others – perhaps sometimes a little too honest. 

Always active, enthusiastic about work, and pursuing the most out of life, Gary created several business ventures throughout his lifetime.  From a painting company (A Lite Touch) in his early years to developing a software program for educators to track grades.  He created a real estate investment firm (Haven Ventures) and finally a real estate appraisal business (Eagle Appraisal) following retirement from teaching.  He was a savvy businessman, and always had a project he was focused on.  His favorite role was being a teacher.  He taught at Freedom Middle School in Freedom, WI for over 20 years.  Teaching was truly his passion.

Gary worked hard and played hard. He was an avid outdoorsman and was always in anticipation of his next hunting or fishing trip.  He enjoyed working in his garden, especially with his grandchildren. Gary was always most proud of his roses and pumpkins.  He loved playing cribbage and looked forward to Wednesday nights with his card friends.

Gary bravely fought many illnesses throughout his life but that never held him back from living.  He wore his illnesses well.  When spending time with friends and family, he always had a smile on his face.  His family and friends were a source of pride for Gary.  He enjoyed telling stories and reminiscing about past adventures (where he may have been the center of attention).

Gary is survived by his supportive and patient wife Berne.  His loving children, a son Aaron (AJ) and his wife Angela.  His daughter Amy Weyenberg and her husband Brian.  His three grandchildren, Alex Steffens, Autumn Steffens and Aleah Weyenberg. He was a kind and loving husband and father who cherished his family.

He is further survived by his siblings: Marlene (Jim) Kilsdonk, Sharon Huss, Linda Waters (special friend Tony Schuh), and Marc (Wanda) Steffens; brothers and sisters-in-law: Bob (Darlene) Schultz, Kathy (Rick) Otis, Mary Schultz, Jake Manske, Dorri Knaack, Ric (Stephanie) Schultz; godchildren: Lisa VanSchyndel, Roberta Lamb, Brian Schultz, Rebecca Manske and many nieces and nephews, treasured friends and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Vince and Lucy Steffens; brother, Lee Steffens and sister, Bonnie (Bob) Driessen; sister-in-law, Lee Ann Steffens; parents-in-law, Elvin and Geraldine Schultz; sister-in-law, Betty Manske; and an infant godchild Ryan Manske.

Services will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at the Verkuilen-Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home Freedom Location (N3972 Columbia Ave, Freedom, WI 54130) with a short prayer service starting at 4:00 PM with Deacon Gary Vanness officiating.  Visitation will follow until 7:00 PM.

The family wishes to thank nurse Angie and the ThedaCare hospice team, his goddaughter Lisa and the countless doctors, nurses and health care professionals for the exceptional care and compassion given to Gary not only throughout his lifetime but especially in his final weeks. We’ll treasure your dedication and kindness.

Thanks Gary, you’re all right!

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