Steve Kuhlman

Steve O. Kuhlmann, known by many as “Super Steve,” passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of the family who meant everything to him. Steve was a man of few words, but those fortunate enough to know him knew that he had a heart of gold. He was strong, loyal, hardworking, patient, funny, easygoing, and, yes, more than a little stubborn. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back and never think twice about lending a hand. If someone needed help, Steve was there. After completing trade school, Steve began a career doing what he was truly gifted at: fixing things. He became an exceptional heavy machinery diesel mechanic and was regarded by those who knew his work as one of the best around. He dedicated 26 years to Owen’s International before spending another 15 years with Gallagher Asphalt, retiring at the age of 65. Steve worked incredibly hard throughout his life, not for recognition or praise, but to provide a good life for the family he loved so deeply. On June 12, 1976, Steve married the love of his life, Patricia (Fehland) Kuhlmann. For 50 years, they built a beautiful life together filled with family, friendship, laughter, memories, and an enduring love that carried them through both the happiest and hardest of times. Patricia not only lost her husband, but her best friend and the love of her life. In her words, “God has gained the best angel ever.” Steve and Patricia were blessed with two daughters, Jennifer (Boo Boo) in 1978, and Jacylin (Peewee) in 1983. To his girls, there simply was no better dad. When Jennifer and Jacylin were little, they would proudly say, “My Daddy can fick it. He can fick anything.” And as far as they were concerned, he really could. Steve was truly a jack of all trades. Whether it involved a diesel engine, electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, household repairs, or just about any other project placed in front of him, Steve could figure it out. There seemed to be nothing he couldn't fix. That made the heartbreak of his cancer even harder for his family, because this time they wished more than anything that they could have fixed something for him, just as he had spent a lifetime fixing everything for them. But Steve gave his battle everything he had and never complained. Steve's life, however, was about so much more than hard work. He enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, spending time with family and friends, and relaxing with a cold Budweiser. He may not have been a man of many words, but when Steve did offer advice, his daughters knew it was worth listening to. He taught them through his actions how to work hard, how to be strong, how to take care of the people you love, and how to be there for others without expecting anything in return. Steve was also an incredible grandfather and an example his grandchildren will carry with them throughout their lives. His family takes comfort in seeing pieces of him living on through them. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Patricia (Fehland) Kuhlmann; his daughters, Jennifer (James) Hancock and Jacylin (Mikael) Klemp; his grandchildren, Brooklynn, Mikenna and Shelton Burdick, and Owen and Jacob Klemp; his sisters, Ardys Curl and Patsy Claus; and many additional family members and friends who will forever remember his strength, loyalty, generosity, humor, and love for life. He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Kuhlmann; his mother, Pearl Kuhlmann; his brothers, Richard and Ronald Kuhlmann; and his brothers-in-law, Raymond Curl and Dennis Claus. There will be tears in the days ahead, although anyone who knew Steve can probably hear him saying, “Oh, stop it.” So rather than goodbye, his family chooses to say see you later. Rest easy, Steve. Your fight is over, and your pain is gone. You gave your family a lifetime of love, lessons, laughter, strength, and memories that cancer can never take away. Until we see you again.