Leonard F. Stecklein Obituary
Leonard Frank Stecklein passed away at his home on July 8th, 2026 following a brief illness with pancreatic cancer. Lenny was born to Leonard and Louise Stecklein of Dubuque, IA on September 10th, 1946 and grew up there with his seven siblings, Theresa (Houselog), Kathy (Klocker), Betty (Zimmer), Mary (Smith), Denny, Luann (Hillary) and Jerry. Len met the love of his life, Dianne, in 1968. Their love was tested and strengthened through Len's 14-month deployment to the Vietnam War and they were married January 9th, 1971. They were a beautiful example of a faithful marriage for 55 years. They joyfully welcomed four children, Mark, Matthew, Sarah (Lenz) and Luke, their spouses Kristen, Nicole, Jon, and Beth, and ten grandchildren, Evelyn, Ben, Rayna, Micah, Dianna, Maggie, Eddie, Genevieve, Cameron and Maximilian. Nothing lit up Len's face like his grandchildren did.
Len's life was built on a foundation of faith. His faith was first instilled by his parents and continued at Sacred Heart Elementary and Wahlert High School. Throughout this Catholic education, he frequently served at the altar for the Latin mass, and he carried on a quiet rosary devotion to his last days.
Len was a lifelong learner and voracious reader. He had books in literally every room of his home, including stashes in the garage. The various titles revealed his eclectic interests and passions including Sports, History, Bridge, Politics, Music, Home Improvement and Fiction. He continued his formal education at Loras College (1968), where he studied Mathematics and Physics. Len next served as a teaching assistant at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee while studying for his Master of Science degree in Mathematics (1972). Len became an Associate member in the Society of Actuaries in 1979 and obtained an Executive M.B.A. from UW-Milwaukee in 1984.
Len always had a strong work ethic and a drive to succeed. He loved to share stories about his early work experience at Dubuque Meat Packing Company and Ray's Standard Service Station. The entirety of his 34-year professional career was at Northwestern Mutual where he started as a computer programmer and worked his way up through the ranks. He served the last 20 years of his career there as an Executive Officer.
Len's generosity was a defining attribute. He shared his gifts volunteering on the boards of Children's Service Society, Feeding America and Holy Family Parish. He most generously shared the fruits of his labor, the Cottage at Legend Lake. So many happy times were had there with Dianne, the kids and their families, as well as countless other family and friends over the last 48 years.
All of Len's accomplishments served his vocations as husband, father and friend, and his greatest legacy is his example of humility, faith, and integrity. His steadfast love, generosity, and kindness touched the hearts of many, and he will forever be loved and missed.
Visitation will be held on Thursday July 16, 2026 at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home, 10280 N. Port Washington Road in Mequon from 5 PM until 7 PM. Another visitation will be held at Holy Family Parish, 4825 N. Wildwood Avenue in Whitefish Bay On Friday July 17, 2026 from 11:30 AM until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 PM.
