Steven Carl Hurst

Steven Carl Hurst, 68, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, with his family by his side. Born on February 18, 1956, in Napoleon to the late Raymond and Dorothy (Shibler) Hurst, Steve was a man whose life was shaped by love, faith, and hard work. On April 23, 1976 Steve married the love of his life, Sue Ann Hesterman. Together, they spent 48 beautiful years building a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their love story was one of true partnership, and though Sue preceded him in death on May 8, 2024, the bond they shared remained strong until the very end. A lifelong farmer, Steve’s days were spent milking his dairy cows on the family farm and later transitioned to grain farming. He took great pride in his work and was a familiar face at the Henry County Fair, where his children and grandchildren carried on the tradition of showing dairy heifers. Farming wasn’t just a job for Steve—it was a way of life. Steve was a dedicated member of St. John Lutheran Church in Stryker, where he gave his time and heart to the congregation, serving as an Elder, Trustee, and Sexton. His commitment to his faith was pure, and it was reflected in everything he did. In 2012, Steve encouraged Sue to explore the art of stain glass. They developed a shared passion for creating stained glass windows for their church and for St John Freedom, a pursuit that left a legacy for generations. Steve’s greatest joy in life was his family. He loved spending time with them, whether it was working on the farm, milking cows, or watching the grandkids play various sports. Led by his example, Steve instilled a strong work ethic in his kids and grandkids. One of his favorite memories was a family trip to Myrtle Beach. His children and grandchildren were his pride and he cherished every moment spent with them. Steve leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will be carried on by his children, Laura (Joe) Bickel, Andrew (Brittany), and Daniel (Ashley); his grandchildren, Alli, Mason, Makenna, Brynn, Aubree, Gabe, Isaac, Zeb, Kaylee, and Macy; his siblings, Marsha (Lynn) Bostelman and Carl (Pam) Hurst; sisters-in-law, Susan Hurst and Becky Hurst; his mother-in-law, Phyllis Hesterman; in-laws, Vicki Hesterman, Linda (Randy) Ridley, Bob (Ann) Hesterman, Tom (Carol) Hesterman; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Sue, Steve was preceded in death by his brothers, Mike, Roger, and Robert “Willie” Hurst. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Steve’s life at St. John Lutheran Church in Stryker. Visitation will be held on Monday, September 2, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will take place at the church on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at 11:00 AM, with an hour of visitation prior to the service. Steve will be laid to rest in the church cemetery, a place close to his heart. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to St. John Lutheran Church to support the arts or Christian education. Steve’s love, kindness, and dedication will be remembered by all who knew him. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at rodenbergergray.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home, Napoleon.

Tributes

Steven Carl Hurst

February 18, 1956 - August 28, 2024