Steve W. Duckwitz

Steve W. “Duck” Duckwitz (72) of West Bend, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on January 27th, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in Madison on March 7th, 1952, Steve was a true Wisconsinite and outdoorsman. Though he seemed tough on the outside, those who truly knew him recognized the kindness and gentleness that lay beneath. He was a creative builder, maker, and handyman, always ready to tackle any project and the first to lend a hand when something needed fixing. 

Steve was passionate about many things. He shared his interests with friends and taught his daughters and anyone interested. He was an excellent bowler and an accomplished fisherman, happiest when fishing in Ontario, Canada. He also enjoyed camping, hunting, grilling, beer, and almost every sport, including skiing and ski-jumping. He had a great sense of humor and was especially proud to play Santa each year at Sunburst Ski Hill, bringing joy to many.

More than anything, he loved his family. He was a fantastic husband, father, and son. He taught honesty, camaraderie, independence, and self-sufficiency, and he led by example with his strength and resilience.

He fought long and hard and is now free from pain.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Duckwitz; daughters Jillian Duckwitz (Scott Blessman) and Stefanie Duckwitz (Lea Bastian); grandson Miloh Duckwitz; brother Scott Duckwitz (Kathleen O’Brien); mother Phyllis Rauch; and stepmother Mary Duckwitz. He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin Duckwitz, and stepfather, George Rauch.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staff who cared for him over the years at Froedtert Hospitals in West Bend and Milwaukee, as well as the compassionate nurses at Kathy Hospice. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to his many friends, colleagues, and loved ones who reached out, visited, and provided comfort during his journey—it meant everything to him. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

A celebration of life is planned for spring or summer. Details will be shared later.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations through a GoFundMe established in his honor (https://gofund.me/a131862a). Sunburst Ski Hill held a special place in his heart. He was dedicated to ensuring that children could enjoy snow sports, and these donations will help continue his legacy of making them accessible to future generations.