Obituary for Steven Francis Brady
Steven Francis Brady succumbed to emphysema and passed away peacefully in his Kewaskum home on Sunday, January 14, 2024. He was 74 years old.
Steve was born on June 28, 1949, in LeMars, Iowa to Ronald and Veronica (nee Quinlan) Brady. The third of ten kids, Steve spent his childhood roaming the neighborhood with his sisters and brothers—sometimes during school hours to his parents' chagrin. Steve was a gifted athlete, excelling at baseball (he played catcher) and pole vaulting (a short but storied career that ended with a broken collarbone). Off the field, Steve was naturally gifted at pool, where he excelled as the town's pool shark. Steve also had an ear for music and, having had no lessons at all, could play anything he heard on the guitar or piano. Steve's early adventures and diverse talents laid the groundwork for his rich and colorful life.
Soon after graduating from high school, Steve was drafted into the Army. He was stationed near the DMZ in South Korea for a significant portion of his service. He enjoyed telling stories of the mischief he and his buddies got up to while they were there. Upon returning stateside, Steve married his first wife, Luetta, and they ultimately settled in Milwaukee to raise their children. Steve worked as the chief engineer at the Wisconsin Center (formerly MECCA) for decades. His work ethic was unmatched, and he often worked more than 60 hours a week. He was known for his problem-solving abilities and mechanical prowess. And he made a friend of nearly everyone who came through the center — from Fortune 500 executives to top-tier musical acts to presidential entourages. He even received a certificate of appreciation from President Bill Clinton's Secret Service detail.
Steve's ease in making friends stemmed from his delightful mix of empathy, compassion, humor, and kindness. Ready to lend a hand or share a laugh with anyone in earshot, his witty banter (more than occasionally on the colorful side) could brighten even the gloomiest day. Steve's storytelling skills were legendary, turning mundane tales into riveting sagas. Despite his comedic genius, he wore humility like a second skin, never wanting to burden anyone or stand out in a crowd. Unbeknownst to him, his quiet confidence and warmth made him stand out effortlessly.
Aside from his kindness and humor, people also gravitated to Steve because of his open heart, adventurous spirit, and insatiable curiosity. His eagerness to learn and embrace new experiences was evident in various facets of his life. From playing music, to golfing, to purchasing and refinishing antiques, to building and programming computers, Steve embraced all that life had to offer. Months of recovery from back surgery in his mid-40s opened the door to culinary exploration, transforming him into a self-taught maestro known for crowd-pleasing barbecue pork ribs and jalapeño poppers. Beyond the kitchen, his hands, skilled at fixing anything, found artistic expression in woodworking. Steve enjoyed woodworking throughout his life, and in his later years, wood carving became a cherished pursuit. He was particularly adept at capturing lifelike facial features in his creations. His passion for wood carving became a poignant legacy, culminating in a vibrant Santa carving crafted for his wife, Brigette, shortly before his passing.
While Steve loved expanding his world, family meant everything to him. Steve was a loving and devoted father who believed his kids could conquer the world — and he made sure they knew it, too. He worked tirelessly to provide them with the opportunities he missed out on and instilled in them a robust sense of confidence. Steve wasn't all business, though. He coached his children's softball and baseball teams, conquered towering waterslides with his daughters, jumped in the deep end even though he could not swim, played hours of golf with his son, and turned camping into a survival adventure. His temper? Oh, that was legendary and ignited at the sight of messy bedrooms, dirty dishes, and crashed cars (sorry again, Dad, on that last one). Through it all, he embedded the values of hard work, accountability, and perseverance. Steve's legacy is borne out in his children's success, a testament to a father who turned life's obstacles into pathways toward a brighter future.
Steve's legacy is further borne out through his grandchildren. Steve relished his role as "Grandpa Steve" to Owen, Damian, and step-grandson Braydon. The delightful laughter that echoed during Steve's 'bus stop' game with Owen in his early childhood gradually transformed into shared moments of joy while fishing, playing games, Zooming, and indulging in chocolate. Even the lively debates sparked by Steve's introduction of 70s music to Owen were cherished moments, illustrating the depth of their evolving bond. Grandpa Steve and Braydon also shared a special connection, with Grandpa Steve introducing Braydon to his passion for woodworking—teaching Braydon to make both a birdhouse and wood carvings—and sharing with Braydon his love of a good breakfast. Damian, the pint-sized whirlwind in Grandpa Steve's world, brought energy and mischief during his visits. From exploring every nook to turning the ordinary into an adventure, Damian's active antics kept Steve (and Brigette) on their toes.
Steve shared the last chapter of his life with his devoted wife, Brigette. The two enjoyed going to concerts, dancing, taking road trips (including a comical detour to Wyoming), listening to music, gardening, barbecuing, spending time with family and friends, and just hanging out together in the backyard (where Steve was rarely without a can of PBR). They raised three miniature dachshunds—WD, Maggie, and Oliver—whom Steve adored. Brigette indulged Steve's love of Westerns and cared for him tirelessly as his disease took hold, ensuring his days were filled with laughter and love.
Steve is preceded in death by his loving parents, Ronald and Veronica Brady, his brother Charles and his brother-in-law Robert Kohn. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Brigette (nee Ottman) Brady; children Erin (Daniel Lee), Megan (Gabriel Yero), Michael (Colleen Whyte), and Rachel (Angel Pagan); grandchildren Owen, Damian, and Mariah; stepchildren Kelly, Clint and Kirk (Sarah); stepgrandchildren Braydon, Hailey and Lucas; siblings Jane (Joe), Tim, Ellie, Idge (Don), Sally (Tom), Joe, John and Molly (Jeff); and dogs Maggie and Oliver. He is also survived by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Dad, we will miss you immensely. You were our "go-to" when life got rough and our mirror when we needed clarity. We could always count on you when we needed help, and although you certainly did not mince words, you provided us with sage advice that always came from a place of love. You taught us the importance of giving everyone a chance and the reality that neither people nor situations are ever strictly black or white. You always gave it 110% and never quit. Because of you, we have big hearts, the love of our family, and an insane work ethic. We thank you, Dad, for all the calls, texts, wise words of advice, the love you gave us, and the beautiful lives we have lived because of you, your hard work, and your boundless love for us. We are all better people, Dad, because of you. You will live on in our hearts and the hearts of our children.
True to Steve's style, no formal funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Camp Hometown Heros (https://www.camphometownheroes.org). The family will be holding a celebration of Steve's life at the American Legion Post 537 on June 29, 2024, the day after what would have been his 75th birthday. Further details will be forthcoming.
Steve was born on June 28, 1949, in LeMars, Iowa to Ronald and Veronica (nee Quinlan) Brady. The third of ten kids, Steve spent his childhood roaming the neighborhood with his sisters and brothers—sometimes during school hours to his parents' chagrin. Steve was a gifted athlete, excelling at baseball (he played catcher) and pole vaulting (a short but storied career that ended with a broken collarbone). Off the field, Steve was naturally gifted at pool, where he excelled as the town's pool shark. Steve also had an ear for music and, having had no lessons at all, could play anything he heard on the guitar or piano. Steve's early adventures and diverse talents laid the groundwork for his rich and colorful life.
Soon after graduating from high school, Steve was drafted into the Army. He was stationed near the DMZ in South Korea for a significant portion of his service. He enjoyed telling stories of the mischief he and his buddies got up to while they were there. Upon returning stateside, Steve married his first wife, Luetta, and they ultimately settled in Milwaukee to raise their children. Steve worked as the chief engineer at the Wisconsin Center (formerly MECCA) for decades. His work ethic was unmatched, and he often worked more than 60 hours a week. He was known for his problem-solving abilities and mechanical prowess. And he made a friend of nearly everyone who came through the center — from Fortune 500 executives to top-tier musical acts to presidential entourages. He even received a certificate of appreciation from President Bill Clinton's Secret Service detail.
Steve's ease in making friends stemmed from his delightful mix of empathy, compassion, humor, and kindness. Ready to lend a hand or share a laugh with anyone in earshot, his witty banter (more than occasionally on the colorful side) could brighten even the gloomiest day. Steve's storytelling skills were legendary, turning mundane tales into riveting sagas. Despite his comedic genius, he wore humility like a second skin, never wanting to burden anyone or stand out in a crowd. Unbeknownst to him, his quiet confidence and warmth made him stand out effortlessly.
Aside from his kindness and humor, people also gravitated to Steve because of his open heart, adventurous spirit, and insatiable curiosity. His eagerness to learn and embrace new experiences was evident in various facets of his life. From playing music, to golfing, to purchasing and refinishing antiques, to building and programming computers, Steve embraced all that life had to offer. Months of recovery from back surgery in his mid-40s opened the door to culinary exploration, transforming him into a self-taught maestro known for crowd-pleasing barbecue pork ribs and jalapeño poppers. Beyond the kitchen, his hands, skilled at fixing anything, found artistic expression in woodworking. Steve enjoyed woodworking throughout his life, and in his later years, wood carving became a cherished pursuit. He was particularly adept at capturing lifelike facial features in his creations. His passion for wood carving became a poignant legacy, culminating in a vibrant Santa carving crafted for his wife, Brigette, shortly before his passing.
While Steve loved expanding his world, family meant everything to him. Steve was a loving and devoted father who believed his kids could conquer the world — and he made sure they knew it, too. He worked tirelessly to provide them with the opportunities he missed out on and instilled in them a robust sense of confidence. Steve wasn't all business, though. He coached his children's softball and baseball teams, conquered towering waterslides with his daughters, jumped in the deep end even though he could not swim, played hours of golf with his son, and turned camping into a survival adventure. His temper? Oh, that was legendary and ignited at the sight of messy bedrooms, dirty dishes, and crashed cars (sorry again, Dad, on that last one). Through it all, he embedded the values of hard work, accountability, and perseverance. Steve's legacy is borne out in his children's success, a testament to a father who turned life's obstacles into pathways toward a brighter future.
Steve's legacy is further borne out through his grandchildren. Steve relished his role as "Grandpa Steve" to Owen, Damian, and step-grandson Braydon. The delightful laughter that echoed during Steve's 'bus stop' game with Owen in his early childhood gradually transformed into shared moments of joy while fishing, playing games, Zooming, and indulging in chocolate. Even the lively debates sparked by Steve's introduction of 70s music to Owen were cherished moments, illustrating the depth of their evolving bond. Grandpa Steve and Braydon also shared a special connection, with Grandpa Steve introducing Braydon to his passion for woodworking—teaching Braydon to make both a birdhouse and wood carvings—and sharing with Braydon his love of a good breakfast. Damian, the pint-sized whirlwind in Grandpa Steve's world, brought energy and mischief during his visits. From exploring every nook to turning the ordinary into an adventure, Damian's active antics kept Steve (and Brigette) on their toes.
Steve shared the last chapter of his life with his devoted wife, Brigette. The two enjoyed going to concerts, dancing, taking road trips (including a comical detour to Wyoming), listening to music, gardening, barbecuing, spending time with family and friends, and just hanging out together in the backyard (where Steve was rarely without a can of PBR). They raised three miniature dachshunds—WD, Maggie, and Oliver—whom Steve adored. Brigette indulged Steve's love of Westerns and cared for him tirelessly as his disease took hold, ensuring his days were filled with laughter and love.
Steve is preceded in death by his loving parents, Ronald and Veronica Brady, his brother Charles and his brother-in-law Robert Kohn. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Brigette (nee Ottman) Brady; children Erin (Daniel Lee), Megan (Gabriel Yero), Michael (Colleen Whyte), and Rachel (Angel Pagan); grandchildren Owen, Damian, and Mariah; stepchildren Kelly, Clint and Kirk (Sarah); stepgrandchildren Braydon, Hailey and Lucas; siblings Jane (Joe), Tim, Ellie, Idge (Don), Sally (Tom), Joe, John and Molly (Jeff); and dogs Maggie and Oliver. He is also survived by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Dad, we will miss you immensely. You were our "go-to" when life got rough and our mirror when we needed clarity. We could always count on you when we needed help, and although you certainly did not mince words, you provided us with sage advice that always came from a place of love. You taught us the importance of giving everyone a chance and the reality that neither people nor situations are ever strictly black or white. You always gave it 110% and never quit. Because of you, we have big hearts, the love of our family, and an insane work ethic. We thank you, Dad, for all the calls, texts, wise words of advice, the love you gave us, and the beautiful lives we have lived because of you, your hard work, and your boundless love for us. We are all better people, Dad, because of you. You will live on in our hearts and the hearts of our children.
True to Steve's style, no formal funeral services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Camp Hometown Heros (https://www.camphometownheroes.org). The family will be holding a celebration of Steve's life at the American Legion Post 537 on June 29, 2024, the day after what would have been his 75th birthday. Further details will be forthcoming.