Steven "Steve" Michael Larsen, 72 years old, passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family, on May 1, 2025, at Talamore Senior Living in Sun Prairie, WI.
Steve had been treated in recent years for Parkinson's, Dementia, and related declining health conditions. During his time at Talamore, Steve enjoyed spending time with his family and dog, Roscoe, shooting pool, watching sports, and playing drums. Steve's family appreciates the care and comfort provided by staff and the medical team of both Talamore and Agrace Hospice.
Steve is survived by his wife Becki, daughters Meghan Reinhardt (Kollin) of Sun Prairie, WI and Kirsten Thorson (Joe) of Shakopee, MN and four grandchildren, Logan (13), Emmitt (12), Millie (2), and Aydah (10 months).
Steve was born on July 23, 1952, in Beloit, WI. His parents, Leverne Philip Larsen and Millicent Mildred Leadholm Larsen, brought Steve up in Beloit along with his older brothers, Wayne (Lee) of Marion, Iowa and Dale (Christine) of Phoenix, AZ.
Steve was an exceptional athlete who played basketball and baseball throughout his school years, which included being a member of the Beloit Memorial High School 1969 Wisconsin State Basketball Championship team. Affectionately referred to by his friends as "Otto," Steve was a sports junkie who lived, ate and breathed sports. Steve also entered the University of Wisconsin-Madison as a baseball player recruit. His childhood memories included annual summer vacations for his parent's family destination in Eau Claire, Barron, Amery and Spooner. Round the clock fishing and playing cork ball and wiffle ball were his favorite pastimes.
Steve played percussion in the Roosevelt Junior High School band. Steve was an avid fan of the original Milwaukee Braves baseball team. Like his dad and brothers, Steve was an enthusiastic supporter of the Green Bay Packers, the Wisconsin Badgers and the Milwaukee Bucks and Brewers. He played golf and enjoyed many fishing trips throughout Wisconsin with his Dad.
Steve and Becki resided in Monroe, WI for most of his adult life with their two daughters, Meghan and Kirsten. Steve worked for 37 years for the original Wisconsin Power and Light company, now Alliant Energy. He retired in 2016. When Steve was not working, he was spending quality time with his family, teaching his girls about basketball, softball, and fishing. Steve coached and refereed basketball, which was a memorable time for his daughters. Steve also spent time with close friends and continued to be an avid sports fan and play sports in his free time. Steve and his family went on many family vacations to Hayward, WI, the Wisconsin Dells, and Navarre Beach Florida. Steve's favorite band, The Eagles, would be playing on the car drive to each destination.
Steve fought daily to stay sober for over 40 years. He was an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous in Monroe, WI and he was an inspiration and sponsor to many individuals throughout that time. Steve always had a way with words, whether in speaking or writing. He could make someone feel like they were the most incredible person in the world and that they could do anything they set their mind to.
Steve had a strong faith in God. Steve and his family were active members of St. John's United Church of Christ in Monroe, Wi. Steve believed that if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it. Steve loved those near to him with every part of his being and believed that we are powerless over people, places, and things. He lived his life by the words of the Serenity Prayer. Steve always provided a listening ear without judgement and helped those in need as much as he could.
Steve's family thank him for his unconditional love, his constant care and giving nature, his presence, his humor, his empathy, and his guidance. Steve will be greatly missed by many, but his presence will live on in his family's hearts.
Steve's family's intention is to have his ashes placed next to his parent's family plot in Amery, WI. A private family gathering will be held this summer. Condolences can be sent to 302 Hallmark Way Sun Prairie, WI 53590.