Stephana Steinbach

Obituary

A strong independent German lady, Stephana Marie Steinbach, was born September 22, 1918, at her family’s home in Lafayette, Minnesota. She was the daughter of George and Anna (Brey) Klossner. Stephana was baptized and confirmed in her faith at the Church of St. George in St. George, Minnesota. She received her education through second grade at the country school near her home, and transferred to school in town. She lived in various locations in Brown County including New Ulm and Klossner, and in Fairfax prior to living in Stewart.

Stephana was united in marriage to Otto Steinbach on November 8, 1944, in St. George, Minnesota. They made their home in Collins Township north of Stewart where they farmed the land and raised their children. Stephana helped Otto with the farming operation along with her busy role as mother and homemaker. She was a devoted mom. For 70 years she took Leon, her son, under her wings and kept him safe and in good health. “Thank you mom.” She also helped raise her two grandchildren, Adam and Andy.

Stephana, who liked being called “Steffie”, loved to be outside, tending to her large gardens and watching the plants grow. She also loved to cook, bake, and sew. She and Otto enjoyed dancing and polka music, traveling, and going to auctions and flea markets. Stephana loved driving her own car, reading newspapers, and talking politics all day long. She was an avid Minnesota Twins baseball fan and also enjoyed watching television. Her favorite shows were Dr. Phil and Judge Judy. At the age of 98, Stephana received a letter from McLeod County for jury duty in which she could not wait to serve!

Stephana was a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church, and was associated with Catholic Aid. She will be lovingly remembered for her strength and humor. People loved starting conversations with her and she loved continuing the conversations. People were attracted to Stephana’s kindness, humor, and her love of life.

On Friday, January 26, 2018, Stephana passed away at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, having reached the age of 99 years. Blessed be her memory. Stephana, now you are in the elite club with God, and it is your time now to join past loved ones at the heavenly gate.

Stephana is survived by her:

Children: Leon Steinbach of Stewart, MN,
               James “Jim” Steinbach and his significant other, Pam Markwood and her family of Stewart, MN,
               Rita Mortensen and her fiancé Bruce Daniels of Carver, MN, and
               Betty Schofield of St. Paul, MN;
Grandchildren: Andy Steinbach and his wife, Sarah Lindeman, Adam Steinbach and his wife, Sara, Michele Mortensen, Angela Mortensen, Kara Rice and her husband, Keith, and Eric Schofield and his wife, Breanna;
Great-Grandchildren: Eli Steinbach, Silas Steinbach, Ezra Steinbach, and Adriana Mortensen;
Other relatives and friends.

Stephana was preceded in death by her Parents, George and Anna Klossner; Husband, Otto Steinbach; Son, Grant Steinbach; Son-In-Law, Glen Schofield, and by her Brothers and Sisters.