Warren J. Steinfeldt

Warren J. Steinfeldt, 91, lifetime resident of De Pere, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2011. Warren was born on December, 9th, 1919 to Odelia (Bellin) and Arnold Steinfeldt of West De Pere. Located at 441 Reid Street (now the Nicolet Apartments), the Steinfeldt family home was a bustling place in a time before city sidewalks, when well-worn backyard paths connected neighbors' homes to each other. Warren spent his childhood surrounded by eight siblings (Marie, Irene, Bill, John, Carl, Rupert, Norma and Shirley) and many friends from the old neighborhood, together they had endless adventures and created many of the great memories that Warren would later share with future generations of his family. An avid sportsman nearly all of his life, it was here that Warren perfected his legendary deer hunting and rabbit trapping skills. In addition, Warren inherited his father's love for fishing and was known on the banks of the Fox River as quite an angler. Warren followed in the footsteps of his older siblings by graduating from St Joe's primary school and St Norbert High School. He then continued his education at St. Norbert through the ROTC program. It was that training—and growing up in a large family--which provided Warren with the leadership skills he would later need in the US Army. In October of 1940, Warren enlisted in a 1-year federal service program with the military. WWII, however, changed Warren's plans; he would eventually serve a total of 6 years at home and abroad, reaching the esteemed rank of First Lieutenant. Warren's service began in Field Artillery at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, he then found himself transferred to the Tank Destroyers Center at Camp Hood, Texas. Due to his training and natural leadership skills, Warren was assigned to the position of weapons instructor at numerous army camps in Georgia, Kentucky and Texas. Warren continued his military career in the Pacific Theater. In May of 1945, he took part in the Battle of Luzon (Philippine Islands) and later served in the occupation forces stationed in Tokyo, Japan. Warren was honored for his service to his country with the American Defense Metal with Bronze Service Star, Asiatic Pacific Medal with Bronze Service Star, American Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Philippine Liberation Ribbon with Bronze Service Star. He was also awarded the US Army Good Conduct Medal for his outstanding leadership and service. Warren's mind, however, wasn't always on the war. On November 14, 1942 Warren married Anne Mancheski of Denmark, Wisconsin. When they met at a local dime dance before he entered the Army, Warren instantly knew that he had found his perfect partner in Anne. After Warren returned home from the war in 1946, he and Anne briefly moved to Green Bay where he worked at Fort Howard. Later Warren worked at the US Post office as a mail sorter and letter carrier. Warren and Anne spent 22 wonderful years together traveling, dancing, playing cards, and simply enjoying life before her death in 1964. Warren remained a familiar sight as he continued delivering mail in the Astor District and other Green Bay neighborhoods. The handsome and outgoing postman, however, soon found love again. After five years of being single, Warren was set up on a blind-date by a postal customer—who would eventually become his sister-in-law. Warren married Irene (Wanek) Krautkramer of Wrightstown, on August 22, 1970. With Irene, Warren added three grown sons and numerous grandchildren to his own family of nieces and nephews. Warren and Irene enjoyed 42 years memorable years together in their East De Pere home. They were popular residents in their neighborhood, their hospitality and graciousness for friends and neighbors was to be envied. After retirement, Warren continued to be an active member of the community. He was a champion bowler, member of the De Pere Men's Club, was involved with the Retired Postal Workers Association, enjoyed gardening and was ever watchful of the neighborhood squirrels raiding his birdfeeder. Warren was the kind of person each of strives to be: funny, kind, generous, and an eternal optimist in spite of life's adversities. Warren was the type of person who rarely talked about his accomplishments, but always found praise for others. A gentle giant, Warren had the ability to rescue wayward ducklings, yet possessed a quiet strength stand up for what he believed. Through his service abroad and dedication to his family and community, Warren has improved each of our lives. You are already missed. Warren is survived by his lovely wife of 42 years, Irene; stepsons Tom and Frank Krautkramer; sister, Norma (Don) Norton; brother, Rupert Steinfeldt; sisters-in-law, Marion Steinfeldt; Dorothy Steinfeldt; brother-in-law, Bill Clancy; and many, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren. Family and friends may call on Saturday, November 12, 2011 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 220 S. Michigan St., De Pere from 9:30a.m. until 10:45a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00a.m. Saturday at the church with Rev. Richard Getchel officiating. Burial in Allouez Catholic Cemetery. Cotter Funeral Home, De Pere, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to Warren’s family at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. The family wishes to extend its sincere thanks to Drs. Shick and Gallion, Sr. Monica and the Nursing staff of 4th Floor St Vincent's Hospital for their care and kindness extended to Warren. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.