Steven Steve Stanke

Steven "Steve" Stanke, age 73 of Janesville, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday evening, March 21, 2018.
Steven Everett, the son of Everett and Elizabeth (Truman) Stanke, was born on August 2, 1944, in Mankato. Following his graduation from Janesville High School with the class of 1962, Steve enlisted in the United States Navy and later received an honorable discharge. Upon returning, he began his career as an electrician and eventually owned and operated Stanke Electric Company. Steve was Commander of the American Legion Post 281 in Janesville, a Board member of the Smiths Mill Public Cemetery and Pioneer Power, and Head Usher at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. He enjoyed dancing, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, Twins, and Timberwolves, restoring Allis Chalmers tractors with his father, and raising elk.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a nephew; and by his brother-in-law.
Steve is survived by his children, Douglas (Pam) Stanke, Dennis (Kris) Stanke, and Dawn (Jeremy) Anderson; significant other, Norma Witt; siblings, Barbara Hill and Curtis (Donna) Stanke; four grandchildren and four step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 26, 2018, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato, with Father John Kunz officiating. Interment will be held at the Smiths Mill Cemetery, with Military Honors provided by the American Legion Post 281.
Visitation will be held 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday at Starkson & Steffel Funeral & Cremation Services ~ Arnoldt Chapel of Janesville, and will continue for one hour prior to Mass at church on Monday morning.
In lieu of flowers, Steves family requests memorials preferred to Smiths Mill Public Cemetery, American Legion Post 281, or to the Donors Choice in his memory.
Arrangements are being completed by Starkson & Steffel Funeral & Cremation Services ~ Arnoldt Chapel of Janesville.