Donald Henry Robert Stieve, Jr., age 73, of Stevens Point, Wisconsin passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at Marshfield Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 5, 1952, in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Don was the beloved son of Donald Henry Robert Stieve, Sr. and Anna (Johnson) Stieve.
On September 12, 1981, Don married the love of his life, Claudia (Hackett) Stieve. Together they shared 43 years of beautiful marriage, building a strong and loving family rooted in faith and devotion. He was a proud father to three children: Robert Stieve (Angie) and their daughter Grace, Brooke Feltz (Tucker) and their daughters Azlin and Harper, and Brett Stieve (Danyel) and their sons Braxtyn and Brytan.
Don was a lineman by trade and dedicated 25 years of service to Wisconsin Power & Light/Alliant Energy, working from 1982 until his retirement in 2007 at the age of 55. He was deeply respected for his tireless work ethic, reliability, and no-nonsense honesty.
Before his career as a lineman, Don served his country with honor in the United States Navy as part of the Seabees from 1971 until his honorable discharge in 1977. During his service in Vietnam, he earned multiple distinguished honors, including the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, and the Navy and Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia for airborne training and jumps. His additional decorations include the Navy “E” Ribbon for battle efficiency, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. A skilled marksman, he was also awarded the Expert Rifleman Badge. Don held the rank of Corporal (E-4) and served with pride, courage, and a deep sense of duty to his fellow servicemen and his country.
Don’s love for the outdoors began as a young boy hunting and fishing in Baraboo. That early passion only grew stronger over the years. After marrying Claudia, he spent countless cherished days hunting on family land in Tomah and at Fort McCoy. Deer camp every November was sacred to him—a time for tradition, bonding, and connection to the land. In 2003, he harvested a remarkable 11-point buck with a 23½-inch inside spread, affectionately known as “Bullwinkle.” The buck was featured in Whitetail Fanatic magazine and earned a place in the Boone and Crockett record book. It was one of his proudest moments in the field.
In 2018, Don had the honor of participating in the Never Forgotten Honor Flight, accompanied by his daughter Brooke as his guardian. It was a deeply meaningful experience he cherished and spoke about often.
Don was a man of faith. He believed wholeheartedly that Jesus Christ is King, and in recent years he drew even closer to the Lord. His relationship with God brought him strength, peace, and purpose—especially in the final chapter of his life. His family is comforted knowing that Don entered the gates of heaven with joy, and that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Henry Robert Stieve, Sr. and Anna (Johnson) Stieve; and his sisters Carol Stieve, Cathy Stieve, and Sharon Kay Stieve. He is survived by his loving wife Claudia, his children and grandchildren, and his dear cousins Dixie and Ron Marquardt.
If you knew Don, you knew his laugh—it was unforgettable, loud, and full of life. He was a straight shooter, loyal to the core, a hard worker, and someone who could shoot the breeze with anyone. Don loved music—especially ‘60s hits and classic country—and there was never a quiet moment in his garage without it playing in the background. He had a big heart and always showed up when someone needed help. Above all, he lived with integrity and always tried to do the right thing.
His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the deep love he had for his family.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Rembs Funeral Home in Marshfield with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of service. Military honors will be conducted by VFW Mueller-Hintz Post #1866 – Marshfield at the funeral home following the service.
Condolences may be sent online at www.rembsfh.com
Author: News Desk
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