John R. Steffes

John R. Steffes, 75, who lifted the spirits of all who knew him, died July 26, 2022, as the result of an automobile accident.

A celebration of life for John will take place on November 11, 2022, from 3-6 p.m. at Whispering Springs (380 Whispering Springs Dr, Fond du Lac, WI 54937) in Fond du Lac. Masks are highly encouraged.

He was born Aug. 1, 1946, in Mt. Calvary, Wis., to Ralph and Eileen (Olson) Steffes, near his grandparent’s farm where he loved to play as a boy. He charmed the lovely Mary Ann Breit, and they married on Oct. 12, 1968, in LeRoy, Wis. John and Mary Ann were true soulmates and had a lot of fun for 53 years, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 2018 on Sanibel Island, Fla., with their children and grandchildren.

A 1964 graduate of Goodrich High School, John worked for 42 years at Mercury Marine in Fond du Lac, most recently as maintenance supervisor. He retired in 2006.

John and Mary Ann were known for their love of adventure and travel, with tours across the U.S. and Europe. They started trips with their four kids in a paneled station wagon, where John would encourage exploration and open hearts to people from all walks of life because “the world is full of friends you haven’t met yet.” Later, John and Mary Ann put on many miles as the two of them traveled extensively, including many trips by motorcycle. In the 80s, John was an avid bowler and competed in several national bowling tournaments.

John would say he was a lucky man, proud of his marriage, family and 38 years of sobriety. He loved his children and grandchildren unconditionally and was there for every event big or small. He believed in community service, including mentoring and supporting others who were struggling with addiction through local and regional support programs. He and Mary Ann collaborated on community outreach for many organizations in Fond du Lac and she relied on his creative solutions when things got complicated.

If you met John, you would get to know him through his booming voice, singing, quick wit and interesting conversation. His stories were epic, from his travels or curious pursuits in science, history and sports. His incredible memory meant he could even tell you preferred highways across any state without looking at a map. He bore a strong resemblance to Santa Claus with his white beard and twinkling eyes. Many children were quite sure that they met the real Santa when in his presence and he always found a way to bring them joy. His grandchildren knew him simply as “the best grandpa ever.”

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, four children and seven grandchildren. His children are Dr. Sara Steffes Hansen (Brian) of Oshkosh (grandchildren Chloe and Liam), Jennifer Cowling (Derek) of Fond du Lac (grandchildren Alex, Katlyn and Jacob Hendricks), Peter Steffes (Amy) of Elcho, and Matthew “Bubba” Steffes (Caitlin) of Eau Claire (grandchildren William and Samuel). He also is survived by his brother Steve Steffes (Sonia) of Athens, Ga. John is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and one infant son, Frank. He also will be missed by the family furbaby, Molly.

Many compassionate healthcare providers helped John in recent years, and the Steffes family appreciates each and every one of them. As well, the family appreciates efforts of the Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Department and First Responders.

Koepsell Funeral Home of Mayville is assisting the family with a private service, and a celebration of life will be planned for the fall. Memorials may be sent to Koepsell Funeral Home, 301 N. Walnut St., Mayville, Wis. 53050, from which the family will establish a community gift. The family appreciates the phenomenal blessings and support of their many family members and friends during this time.

We miss the epic John R. Steffes, and we will continue to share all the love he gave to us and the world.