"I am so sorry for your family's incredible loss. I very much enjoyed seeing all the wonderful pictures you were kind enough to share. My prayers for you, for joy in the midst of your sorrow, strength from our Lord, and peace amongst the tears and pain. Love, Kari Felty (Elseth) "
In loving memory of
Steven Lee Washechek
February 7, 1945 - July 15, 2021
Steven Lee Washechek of Hoffman, MN died July 15th from a septic infection. Steve was born February 7th, 1945 in New Ulm, MN and grew up in Hector, MN with three brothers, a foster sister, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles. Steve loved athletics and participated in football, basketball, and track during his high school career. He continued to follow sports, including his beloved Vikings, throughout his life. However, he was most thrilled to watch his children and eventually grandchildren participate in their athletic events.
Steve graduated from Mankato State University with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and later earned his Master's Degree in Education from Winona State University. Steve married Joyce Gwendolyn Asp on February 1st, 1969, which ultimately brought into the world two beautiful daughters Christy and Amy. Steve loved his family and loved children in general, leading him into a 40+ year career in elementary education. He connected with the children and found unique object lessons to engage his students in learning.
Steve trusted in Jesus Christ as his savior and that decision forever influenced his life. He served at Calvary Evangelical Free Church in various capacities like Sunday school teacher, VBS, church chairman, building chairman, and numerous other ways. Steve's calm, encouraging presence strengthened relationships and fostered Christlikeness in those he influenced. Steve's warm smile and hearty greeting engaged every person he met.
Steve loved to camp and took his family from campsite to campsite, experiencing the beauty of God's creation. His love for the outdoors and God's creation ultimately led him to purchase 5 acres of cow pasture on a lake near Hoffman, MN in 2000. Steve and Joyce would name that property Stony Oaks and dedicate it as a place to gather, fellowship, and enjoy God's nature.
Through countless hours of dreaming, planning, and sweat, Steve transformed that land into a six-bedroom getaway for family and friends where you could slow down, catch a fish, listen to the birds, and watch the sunset over the lake.
Steve lived out the great commandments of loving God and loving others, leaving a legacy of thousands of people he touched throughout his life. He will be deeply missed!
Steve leaves behind his loving wife Joyce; daughters Christy (Scott) Sheets and Amy Perrill; Grandchildren: Toby Sheets, Elijah Sheets, Abby Sheets, Dylan Perrill, Bryn Perrill, Colt Perrill; brother Calvin Washechek, and many cousins, nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents Frank and Irene Washechek; stepmother Orpha Washechek; brothers Gene and Bervin Washechek; sister-in-law Marlys Washechek; and son-in-law Jay Perrill. May the LORD bless the memory of Steven Lee Washechek!
Funeral services for Steve will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, July 22, 2021 at Calvary Evangelical Free Church, 5500 25th Ave NW, Rochester, MN with a visitation one hour prior. Visitation will also be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Pl NW, Rochester, MN. Inurnment will be at Hector City Cemetery in Hector, MN.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Calvary Evangelical Free Church or the Gideon's International.
Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Washechek family; to share a special memory or condolence please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com
Tributes
"Mardy Peterson Vander Maat I was privileged to know Steve in college through the Wesley Center activities. His solid Christian witness to me was a blessing and a treasured memory. Enjoyed reading about his full productive life for Jesus."
"I was so sorry to hear of Steve?s passing. It was such a pleasure to have you as a neighbor for so many years. "
"So sorry to hear about Steve?s passing. My love & prayers are with you, Joyce , Christy, Amy & the rest of the family. Mary Ratzloff & family"
"Oh... How we will miss Steve's gentle and kind spirit! We send our sincere condolences to Joyce and the entire family. May God take every tear and create a fountain of healing in this very difficult time. Steve was loved by many because he loved many... God Be Near You... "