Steve Achterhof

On June 29, with his wife Trudy by his side, Steve Achterhof, 73, was freed from the pain of Lewy Body Dementia.

He was born on December 7, 1949 to Bernice (Zillmer) and Eugene Achterhof, in Baldwin WI.  He served in the Army June 1969 to September 1970 and then returned home.  For a short time, he worked at Vollrath Refrigeration followed by a career with Gregerson Hardware.  Steve was the primary seller of sporting goods, but quickly became the “go to” man who knew all about every gun.  He loved this job and all the customers he served.  Up to the time of his death, if you bought a gun from him, he could tell you what it was but he probably couldn’t remember your name.

Steve and Trudy married April 8, 1972 in a small church wedding with family.  During their 51 years of marriage, they travelled whenever possible.  Almost every state west and south west of WI, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and most recently cruised to Belize.  For the past 10 years they wintered in Florida.

Steve’s real joy in life was hunting, trap shooting and collecting guns.  He was always after the biggest game, a Jim Shockey wannabee.  He was lucky enough to hunt big game in Colorado, British Columbia, New Foundland, Florida and Texas.  Wisconsin deer hunting could not be missed and great times were had by all who stayed at the hunting cabin.  John Wayne was his Cowboy idol, Elvis, favorite singer and Mt Dew beverage of choice.  He enjoyed watching the Packers and the Badgers.  His greatest pride was in teaching our great nephew how to trap shoot and hunt.

He is survived by his loving wife,Trudy; sisters Sandy(Dave)Hoogenakker, Kay Thompson; brother Tom (Judy) Achterhof and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Bernice Achterhof and sister Sharon; Brother-in-law Steve Thompson; Father-in-law & Mother-in-law Bill and Mildred Pfluger and Brother-in-law Bill Pfluger.

The family would like to thank Adoray Home Health and Hospice, Western Wisconsin Health and Comforts of Home for the care and compassionate services provided.

Come join in a Celebration of Life at O’Connell Funeral Home in Baldwin on Friday, July 14, 2023 from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm with a service starting at 6:30 pm.  The service will be live streamed for those who are unable to attend. WATCH HERE .  To honor Steve wear your trap shooting, hunting, Packer or Badger attire.  Come hungry we will be having an indoor picnic.  Memorial Donations can be made to the family or Adoray Home Health & Hospice.