"Sue, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. "
In loving memory of
Steven J. Van Oort
September 9, 1954 - November 2, 2017
Steven (Steve) J. Van Oort died suddenly on November 2, 2017 at Mayo Clinic Hospital- St. Marys Campus, surrounded by his family. Steve was born in Orange City, Iowa on September 9, 1954 to Charlene and Jay Van Oort. Steve lived in Iowa and Washington before moving with his family to Rochester, Minnesota. Steve attended and graduated from Rochester Public Schools and RTCC.
Steve married his loving wife, Sue on May 21, 1983 at the 5th floor Chapel at the Mayo Clinic Hospital - St. Mary's Campus.
Steve had multiple passions during his lifetime. His passion for music and musical talent started with his playing his trumpet in elementary school. Steve loved to share stories of playing trumpet at John Marshall High School with his life-long friend, Steve E. Steve's passions also included skiing and golf. Steve initially learned to ski in 6th grade. He had been a ski instructor at Welch Village and taught his sons to ski at a young age. His biggest passion was golf which began in high school. He had many achievements in his lifetime with golf, from being the Soldier's Field Champion to winning his flight at the Pine to Palm Tournament in Detroit Lakes. Paul, another great friend, was a big part of his love for golf. Steve played his final round of golf with one of his best friends, Keith, approximately 2 weeks before his death. Steve had talked about already golfing next year. He will be missed by his golfing buddies.
Steve volunteered with Boy Scouts Troop #498 and guided his sons to become Eagle Scouts. He also volunteered with the Century High School Panther Band when his sons were active in the program. Steve worked at Adamson's car dealership for 40 plus years. He was currently the office manager.
Steve is survived by his wife, Sue; sons, Scott (Katie Frey) of Las Vegas, NV and Jeffrey (Dani) of Denton, TX; his beloved dog, Randall: brother, Craig (Carol) of Rochester; sister, Karen (Calvin) of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law Donald (Susan) Bergstrom of San Clemente, CA; sister-in-law, Ardy (Skip) Melby of Clover, SC; sister-in-law, Sandy Bergstrom of Baxter, MN; sister-in-law, Irene Mlenek of Waseca, MN; 7 nephews; 3 nieces; 15 great nieces and nephews and multiple great, great nephews and nieces. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Charlene and Jay Van Oort; his in-laws, Donald and Kathryne Bergstrom; brother-in-law, Dave Bergstrom; nephew, Eric Bergstrom; grandparents, uncles and aunts.
Visitation will be on Friday, November 10, 2017 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester. A celebration of Steve's life will be on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at 10:00 am at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. Inurnment will be in Oakwood East Cemetery. The family requests that to honor Steve, please dress casual and/or in golfing attire. Memorials may be designated to the family.
The family would like to thank Mayo Clinic in caring for Steve, especially, Dr. Steve Bruce, Dr. Lindsy Williams, Dr. Giuseppe Lanzino, Megan Reps, R.N., Rochester police and fire departments, Gold Cross, Mayo Clinic E.R., Mayo Clinic Nursing supervisors Lori and Mark, Mary Brigh 8D nurses especially Ellie and Jess and Chaplain Anna. A special thank you to Adamson's, especially Randy; GBS/MMSI staff and Bonnie Norris for being there.
Arrangements are with Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"Hearing of Steve's passing was the saddest news. I had the pleasure of working with Steve at Adamson's back in the early 80's. What a wonderful guy, so committed to family, and so genuinely kind hearted. My deepest sympathy to all his family and friends. -Sue Limpert"
"The first memory of Steve that came to mind for me, was when I had a job interview with him..I knew he was a loving family man, in my entire interview we chatted about both his sons..He was so proud of them, his wonderful wife, his dog, then we went on to talk about the marching band and yes he told me about his love of music and golf.. I have never had such a fun interview and it was over an hour and we actually did not cover the work aspect, it was an honour to work for a manager like Steve (8 years at Adamson) He really did have an impact to those who were lucky enough to know him. He truly was so very proud of his family . He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.. love and condolences to his family, friends ..... Michelle Venter"
"To Sue and your family, there are no words to say that will help. So I'm just going to simply say...I'm so Sorry. I will pray for all of you."
"Sue..so sorry for your loss...prayers for you and your family going up for you here in NC. "
"My condolences to Steve's wife and family. Prayers go out to all!!"
"We are so sad about Steve's death. He was a great guy, obviously loved by many. He loved his family (and doggie friends) so much! Prayers for comfort to you. "
"My fourball partner, dedicated member of the local tour groups, men's club member & multiple champ, business acquaintance, and dear friend - you're leaving us much too soon. Thanks for everything you've shared with me & the guys, you won't be forgotten. Keith Landhuis "
"Although I have not been in touch with Steve through the years, I have great memories from our time at John Marshall. He was a great guy then and will be missed. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers! Carol Pagelkopf Venteicher"
"Sue, Scott, and Jeff - Lanny and I are praying for and thinking about your family during this difficult time. We have many memories about your dad and your family. Those trips to Kansas City - Your parents and us were like little kids going on those rides - it was so much fun. Your families dedication to the music programs in the Rochester School District can't be measured. Your dad was a great husband, father, friend, person. Keep your memories close to your heart."