Richard L. STEFFEN

Richard (Rick) L. Steffen (July 2, 1948-August 8, 2023)

Rick was born July 2, 1948 in Waukesha, WI where he resided the majority of his life and met his wife of 53 years, Judith (Judy) Steffen (f/k/a Zellmer).  Rick and Judy had two children Tyler Steffen and Trisha Steffen and a grandson, Chase Steffen.  Rick was a Waukesha South High School graduate in 1966 and worked various jobs to include his passion of cars as a car salesmen at Wilde Pontiac where he earned many top salesman awards.  Rick later joined the Waukesha Fire Department in 1984 while he was out enjoying one of his passions of jogging and saw a sign posted for an open position and he by chance stood in line and inquired and was later hired where he would advance to become an EMT and a paramedic.  Rick was extremely proud to be part of the department and to be a paramedic serving his community.  He later retired in 1998. 

Rick was never one to sit still.  While working as a firefighter/paramedic he stayed busy with his passion for cars, specifically Corvettes.  Rick was so proud to have owned 19 Corvettes over the years amongst many other hot rods.  Rick’s passion for cars started when he was an adolescent and bought his first Corvette when he was in high school.  Rick also piled his plate with a passion for building homes.  Rick and Judy enjoyed designing and building their homes moving them to North Prairie and his final home in Waterford, WI. 

Rick made sure he utilized his retirement life to the fullest.  It would not be uncommon to find Rick and Judy on their Harley when not driving in their Corvette.  As proud HOG Members (Kettle Moraine Chapter), Rick and Judy took advantage of the summer months going on overnight motorcycle trips with their friends. 

Further expansion of his retirement life took him and Judy to Fort Myers, Florida where they spent their winters at their condo for the last 23 years.  In true form, Rick gained a whole new group of friends and firefighter friends in Florida.  He enjoyed socializing at various beach bars, deep sea fishing with his Chicago firefighter friends and simply enjoying his cup of morning coffee with Judy on his lanai. 

Those who knew Rick knew he was a humorous man and there was never a dull moment or lack of laughter.  Rick loved to share his adventurous life stories with everyone.  He not only loved to entertain his friends, but he would be the first to lend a helping hand and do whatever it took to get the job done, especially if there was Miller Lite involved.  Rick made any event or task a good time.  He prided himself in helping others when and where he could.

Rick also took great pride in his family.  Rick made sure that his family had the best of everything as their happiness was very important to him.  His love for his wife, children and grandson was indescribable.  Being a Grandpa put Rick over the top with joy.  Rick would take up every opportunity he could to golf with his buddy, Chase, or catch a Brewer game whether at Miller Park or in his sunroom with a can of Miller Lite.  His time with his family ranked at the top of his life enjoyments. 

Rick lived a very fulfilling life with his beloved wife, children, grandson, family, and friends.  Rick leaves behind his siblings, Daniel (Danny) Steffen, Donna Evelons, and Michele (Shelly) Steffen amongst eight nieces and nephews.  Rick was surrounded by his entire family upon his departure to eternal life.  True to Rick, he got a few sips of beer prior to his departure, cracked a joke and listened to blues music in his final moments. 

The family will be holding a private celebration of Rick's life at a later date.

For those unable to attend, those wishing to share a memory or those wanting to just sign the on-line guest registry, please click the Share A Memory link below his photo. 

Thelen Funeral Services of Mukwonago/North Prairie/Genesee is honored to be assisting the family.  262-392-4251

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