Steven James Held, 65, formerly of Wautoma, Wisconsin, joined his Lord and Savior in his heavenly home on Thursday, January 22, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.
A Memorial Service for Steve will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Bethany Ev. Lutheran Church in Hustisford with Rev. Nathan Laska officiating. A visitation for Steve will be held at church on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. Following the service, inurnment will take place at Hustisford Cemetery.
Steve was born on July 27, 1960, to George and Corinne (Zastrow) Held in Hustisford, Wisconsin. He was a 1978 graduate of Hustisford High School and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, where he earned a degree in Education. He later completed his Master’s Degree. Steve spent 18 years working as an educator, teaching many students with learning disabilities. He later transitioned into a sales career, where he excelled and earned numerous awards throughout his tenure. Steve retired from Gordon Food Service in February of 2022; a career he took great pride in and often spoke of fondly.
Steve was a man of strong and deeply held faith. His relationship with God was central to his life and gave him strength and purpose. Though life threw many challenges his way, he believed God had a plan for him and never lost faith. He shared his beliefs with others and did so with great passion.
Baseball was a lifelong passion for Steve. He played college baseball at UW–Oshkosh and spent many years in the Rock River League, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime. In recognition of his dedication and love for the game, he was inducted into the Rock River Baseball Hall of Fame in 2023. Softball was another passion of Steve’s, and he coached for many years, creating meaningful memories with countless players and families. Along with his close friend, Roger Schliewe, Steve helped start the Wisconsin Bandits softball program. Beyond the field, he was an avid fan of Wisconsin sports, proudly cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Green Bay Packers.
Steve cherished time spent with family and friends at Lake Sharon and had a deep love for the outdoors. Hunting alongside his dad, brothers, nephew, and son was especially meaningful to him and created traditions that will be treasured for generations.
Of all the roles Steve held in his life, becoming a grandfather brought him the greatest joy. He adored his grandsons and took immense pride in being “Grandpa,” finding happiness in every moment spent with them.
Steve is survived by his wife, Kathleen Held of Spokane, Washington; his son and daughter-in-law, Nathan and Jessica Held of Mayville; his daughter and son-in-law, Chelsie and Matt Rehse of Horicon; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Brian and Barb Held of Horicon, and Jan and Kim Held of The Villages, Florida; his grandsons, Calvin and Dominic Rehse; his nieces and nephew; and his stepmother, Norma Held.
He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Corinne Held.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Kathy and her family for the love, care, and unwavering support they provided during Steve’s illness, hospital stays, and treatments. Their presence and support meant more than words can express.
Koepsell Funeral Home in Mayville is caring for the family. www.Koepsellfh.com
