Louis Steffl

Louis Joseph Steffl, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 22, 2011, with his family at his side. Louis was born June 11, 1917, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota the son of John and Alma (Hartneck) Steffl. He attended country school and St. Mary's Catholic School. On April 19, 1944, he married Mary (Mangen). He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Catholic fraternal organization, the Catholic Aid Association and the Catholic Order of Foresters. Louis enjoyed fishing, traveling, gardening, and playing cards with his family and friends. He spent his lifetime farming and enjoyed it passionately. He loved the outdoors, his machinery and his faithful companion dogs. His family was always his first priority. His children and grandchildren will attest that he could fix anything and everything many times over. He loved to kid around with those he cherished most. In his later years, Louie loved to tell stories about the practical jokes of his youth. Louis is survived by Mary, his wife of 66 years and his children, Jeanette Bruckbauer (Robert), Mary Jean Bischof (Charles), Carole Steffl, and Joseph Steffl (Cindy Kramer). He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Brian Bruckbauer (Stacye), Chad Sobocinski, Sara Converse (Matt), Michael Sobocinski, Shana Bischof, Jared Bischof (Kate), Zachary Bischof, Justin Steffl (Beth), Nicole Steffl, Adam Steffl, and Maria Steffl, and 5 great-grandchildren Antuan and Andre Sobocinski, Andrew and Allison Converse, and Brecken Hulke. Louis is survived by brothers Cornelius, John (Sylvia), and Jerome (Ruth) and by sisters Monica Hertling and Phyllis Gary. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Les and Paul, and sisters Beatrice Ganske and Bernice Zschetzsche. Louis lived a long and wonderful 93 years. He was a very bright light in lives of his family. We loved him so much and will miss him greatly. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sleepy Eye Healthcare Foundation or St. Mary's Catholic School.