Steven Craig Stoltenberg Sr.

Steven Craig Stoltenberg Sr., 72, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Steven was a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend whose presence brought strength, humor, and loyalty to those who knew him. His sudden passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family.

Funeral services will be held at Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island, NE Friday, January 16, 2026, at 2PM with Derek Apfel, CFC officiating. Burial will follow in the Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Grand Island, NE. Visitation will be on Thursday, from 5-7PM at Apfel Funeral Home. In honor of Steven, family and friends are encouraged to wear Husker or Kansas City Chiefs’ attire, celebrating the teams he loved. Memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date.

 Steve was born in Grand Island, Nebraska on November 15, 1953, to Edward and Gloria (Burnett) Stoltenberg. He attended Grand Island Public Schools and graduated from Grand Island Senior High. Steve was first married to Connie Fieldgrove in 1977, and to this union three children were born. He later married Daine Sutliff on October 16, 1987, and together they welcomed three more children. Steve made his home in Grand Island, where he proudly raised his family and built a life of love and hard work. He worked in construction and later for Monforts before retiring in 1991. He was a devoted Nebraska Husker and Kansas City Chiefs fan. He found joy in gardening in which he displayed his beloved frog and gnome collection. Steve had a deep love for animals and a playful spirit that showed through his daily Snapchats—you could always count on a “good morning,” "have a great day,” and "I love you". Above all, his children were his world. His love for them was unconditional, and everything he did was for his family. 

Survivors include his children: Steven Jr. (Lisa) Stoltenberg of Grand Island; Heather Stoltenberg of Grand Island; Wayne (Jessica) Stoltenberg of Oakley, Kansas; Kayla Stoltenberg of Grand Island; David (Megan) Stoltenberg of Grand Island; and Lynette (Paul) Antillon of Grand Island. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. His siblings include: Terri Alkire of Aurora, Nebraska, and Kim and Leland Smidt of Scotia, along with several nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Gloria Stoltenberg; wife, Diane "Bobbi"; daughter, Jaci; three brothers: John, Randy, and Doug; nephew, Leland Smidt Jr.; and great-nephew, JJ Gibson.