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Schramka-Borgwardt Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Hales Corners

11030 West Forest Home Ave

Hales Corners, Wisconsin

Roger Steckhan Obituary

Steckhan, Roger A. Formerly of Hales Corners, passed away peacefully at his northern WI home, surrounded by family, Friday, December 21, 2012, at age 70. He fought a courageous battle against mesothelioma. Loving son of Roger E. and Dores (Nee Ircink). Dear husband of 27 years to Mary Ann (Nee Dantinne). Beloved father of Rhonda (Wayne) Kasianowicz, Victor and Mark. Grandfather of Kyle. Further survived by proud sister Jean (Brad) Oswald; niece Justine; step-children Lori (Jim) Brinza, Richard (Dawn) Nelson and Geralynn (Ian) Nelson; and step-grandchildren Andrew, Elliott, Nicholas, Olivia and Nathan. Also survived by special friend Ron Domicka, other relatives and many friends. Visitation will be held Thursday, December 27, 2012, at the FUNERAL HOME from 2:30PM until the time of Funeral Ceremony, 5:30PM. Interment private. Roger was a Chief Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard. He was a proud member of the 128th Air refueling wing for 37 years, VFW Post # 2687 and American Legion Post # 93. Roger also enjoyed restoring antique engines and old farm tractors. He will be greatly missed

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Dec. 26, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
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May God Bless Roger on his One Year Anniversary with the Lord. Roger is deeply missed.

The Steckhan Family

December 21, 2013

One of the most significant events to occur during Roger's time as Chief was the Presidential Activation of the 128th Air Refueling Squadron for Operation Allied Force, the liberation of Kosovo.

Awards Biography

December 17, 2013

Chief Steckhan not only planned and organized the large deployment to RAF Brize Norton, but also volunteered to work as a Staff Planner for the duration of the mission.

Awards Biography

December 17, 2013

For flying missions into the war zone, Chief Steckhan was awarded the Air Medal.

Awards Biography

December 16, 2013

On January 1, 1997, Roger was promoted to the highest noncommissioned rank in the Force, Chief Master Sergeant.

Awards Biography

December 16, 2013

Roger became Chief of the Boom Section in December 1996.

Awards Biography

December 16, 2013

Extensive interviews with Roger's Guard Friends who remember the years from 1965 - 1969 revealed that Roger Steckhan continued to be known as "Chief Prop Wash Specialist."

Awards Biography

December 15, 2013

1945 Picture - Much later in life, Roger's leadership and management skills found him serving as a Staff Planner and Advisor on many deployments in his military career.

Awards Biography

December 15, 2013

Roger participated in many deployments dictated by the high operations tempo. These included tours in Germany, France, Italy, and Turkey for Operations Joint Endeavor, Joint Forge, and Northern Watch.

Awards Biography

December 14, 2013

In 1994 Roger became the Chief Standards and Evaluations Boom Operator.

Awards Biography

December 14, 2013

In April 1994, Roger was promoted to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.

Awards Biography

December 12, 2013

Roger served on several tours of duty in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Shield in 1990-91.

Awards Biography

December 12, 2013

Roger never failed to give Suni a cuddle before he ended his visit.

Jean

December 10, 2013

Roger's love for dogs began early in life.

Mom & Dad & Jean

December 10, 2013

This photo is of Roger and his grandson - Kyle Steckhan.

Steckhan Family Photo

December 9, 2013

This 1994 photo is of Roger and his niece - Justine Oswald.

Steckhan Family Photo

December 9, 2013

1996 - Roger and his grandson, Kyle Steckhan.

Steckhan Family Photo

December 9, 2013

My son and his wife - Mary Ann Steckhan.

Mom

December 7, 2013

My son, daughter and husband - Roger, Jean and Ossie.

Mom

December 7, 2013

Roger with his cousin, Carol Schubring, in 1945.

Mom, Dad & Jean

November 21, 2013

Lifelong friends - Roger and his cousin, Carol Schubring Fait.

Mom, Dad & Jean

November 21, 2013

2009 - Back row left - Mark, Kyle and Victor Steckhan (Kyle is Vic's son). Front row - Roger and his dad, Roger E. Steckhan.

Mom & Jean

September 23, 2013

Remembering Roger on his 9-month Anniversary with the Lord. God Bless You.

Mom & Dad & Jean

September 21, 2013

In memory of our kind and true friend - Roger.

Bill & Betty Senft

August 18, 2013

In 1984 and 1985, Roger was selected as part of a crew to represent the unit at the SAC Bombing and Navigation Competitions.

Awards Biography

August 16, 2013

Roger became a Flight Evaluator.

Awards Biography

August 16, 2013

Master Sergeant Steckhan was selected to attend the Central Flight Instructor School at Carswell AFB, Texas. He quickly became one of the most knowledgeable and respected Instructor Booms in the unit.

Awards Biography

August 16, 2013

Roger was promoted to Master Sergeant on March 1, 1980.

Awards Biography

August 16, 2013

Roger became a leading figure in the development, organization, and execution of the unit's Southwind Deployments.

Awards Biography

August 16, 2013

It is over 7 months since our Lord put his arms around Roger and whispered, "Come to Me."
We grieve everyday. Roger would be the first to tell us to stop grieving and to move on.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 13, 2013

1982 - Roger created and operated RASCO (Roger A. Steckhan & Company), a wholesale business of industrial machinery and equipment.

Jean

August 12, 2013

1982 - With his own company, Roger could now manage his time spent with his business and with his time devoted to the military.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 12, 2013

2003 - Family and friends frequently commented that Mark resembled his dad.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 11, 2013

1995 - Mark Steckhan with his dear dad.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 11, 2013

In this photo Roger shares his love of nature with his two sons - Victor and Mark Steckhan.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 11, 2013

1945 - Roger (Ozzie) E. Steckhan received letters of congratulations from President Roosevelt and President Truman for his dedicated military service. Ozzie will celebrate his 95th Birthday on September 7, 2013.

Mom and Jean

August 11, 2013

1945 - Roger's dad just returned home after serving two years in WWII. He was on the USS New Orleans Battleship.

Mom & Jean

August 9, 2013

2006 - Victor Steckhan spends quality time with his grandfather, Roger (Ozzie) E. Steckhan.

Mom & Jean

August 9, 2013

Taken in 1990, the photo is of Roger and his loving son, Vic.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 9, 2013

The photo is of Vic Steckhan and his dear dad.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 9, 2013

This 1972 photo is of Roger and his dad.

Steckhan Family Photo

August 8, 2013

1970 - This photo is of Ozzie and Dores Steckhan. They sold the Pine View Motel in 1968 and moved to Fox Point, WI.

Steckhan Family Photo

August 8, 2013

1995 - This photo is of Rhonda Steckhan and her dear dad.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 7, 2013

2002 - "Still Daddy's Girl" - Rhonda was always interested in her dad's hobbies and creativity.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 7, 2013

1972 - "Daddy's Girl" - Roger's love of nature was shared with his daughter, Rhonda.

Mom & Dad & Jean

August 2, 2013

1973 - Memories of Roger with his family and Mom in the Wisconsin Dells.

Steckhan Family Photo

August 2, 2013

1980 - Sergeant Roger Steckhan was recognized for his excellence as a boom operator.

Awards Biography

August 1, 2013

Sergeant Steckhan was one of the first unit boomers to undergo conversion training to the KC-135 aircraft in January 1978. Following the conversion, Roger found himself even busier with the numerous deployments involved in the Strategic Air Command's worldwide commitment.

Awards Biography

August 1, 2013

Roger's dedication to his military career was shown in his quick progression through the Career Development Courses and Skill Levels. His efforts resulted in promotion to the rank of Technical Sergeant in April 1970.

Awards Biography

August 1, 2013

1969 - Roger took a position as an inflight-refueling specialist, better known as a boom operator. His first flight was in April 1969 and within 90 days he was fully checked out as a boomer. Roger became fully combat and mission ready on July 16, 1969.

Awards Biography

August 1, 2013

1945 Photo of Roger and Bob Gehrmann.

Steckhan Family Photo

July 9, 2013

1979 Photo of Roger and Bob Gehrmann.

Steckhan Family Photo

July 9, 2013

In loving memory of Robert (Bob) Gehrmann (1938 - 2010). Roger's cousin, Bob, died from pancreatic cancer.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 9, 2013

In fond remembrance of Veronica Schubring (Nee Ircink) (1905 - 1978) and Paul Schubring (l907 - 1980). My dear sister, Veronica, died of esophageal cancer. Two years later, her husband, Paul, died of lung cancer.

Mom

July 9, 2013

In loving memory of Alvin Sweeney (1943 - 1999). Roger's cousin, Alvin, passed away from heart disease.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 8, 2013

In loving memory of Allan Sweeney (1943 - 1993). Roger's cousin, Allan, passed away from heart disease.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 8, 2013

Remembering You - Alvin Sweeney was chosen "Master Milwaukee" at age two and a half. He seems to be feeling the weight of his responsibility. His twin, Allan, was the first runner-up.

Milwaukee Journal Photo

July 8, 2013

Remembering You - This 1945 photo is of my twin sister, Dolores, her husband, Sylvester, and sons, Allan and Alvin.

Mom

July 8, 2013

Gone But Not Forgotten - Sylvester Sweeney (1914 - 1977) and Dolores Sweeney (Nee Ircink - Twin of Roger's Mother) (1918 - 2003). Sylvester passed away from bone marrow cancer. Dolores died 26 years later from multiple causes related to osteoporosis and advanced age.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 8, 2013

In fond remembrance of Arthur G. Ircink (1908 - 1969) and Margaret Ircink (Nee Jaeger) (1914 - 2001). Art passed away from complications after having a stroke. Marge passed away 32 years later from heart disease.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 5, 2013

In loving memory of Arthur F. Steckhan (1889 - 1969). Arthur passed away from a heart attack four months after his beloved wife had died.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 1, 2013

Gone But Not Forgotten - Mae Steckhan (Nee Willms) (1890 - 1969)
Beloved Mae died from brain cancer. She passed away surrounded by her family. Mae's dear husband of 58 years died four months later.

Mom & Dad & Jean

July 1, 2013

In loving memory of Verna Gehrmann (Nee Steckhan) (1914 - 1966) and Clarence Gehrmann (1911 - 1970). Verna died at home from a heart attack. A few years later, Clarence also died at home from a heart attack.

Mom & Dad & Jean

June 30, 2013

Dear Mary Ann,
My deepest sympathy to you. You & Roger were so wonderful to my Sister Marlene. She thought the world of you. I have never forgotten how understanding, caring and helpful the both of you were to her.
Sincerely,
Gloria (Marlenes Sister)

June 26, 2013

1966 - Roger and I did not leave Mom and Dad with a completely Empty Nest. When we left home, our Schnauzers, Sammy and Moxie, were left behind.

Jean

June 24, 2013

In 1966 Roger married Loretta Young and Jean moved to a dormitory at the UW-Madison. This photo is of Roger, Loretta in the center, and Jean.

Mom & Dad

June 24, 2013

1966 - The stage in life arrived where we had an Empty Nest.

Mom & Dad

June 24, 2013

If I could choose a sibling, I would choose no other - no finer man.

Jean

June 24, 2013

Although Roger and I grew old in the eyes of others around us, we knew one another as we always were. -1957 Photo - Roger, Uncle Art Ircink, Mom & Jean

Jean

June 24, 2013

1966 - We saw that the time living together as a family of four was coming to an end.

Mom & Dad & Jean

June 24, 2013

We feel fortunate to have lived as a family for nearly one-third of Roger's life.

Mom & Dad & Jean

June 24, 2013

1965 - Roger and his elk hunting friends rented cabins next to the beautiful Meadowlark Lake, WY.

Jean

June 20, 2013

Roger's aim was accurate and precise. I watched him practice since he was in the 6th grade.

Jean

June 18, 2013

Wyoming Big Horn Mountains - Roger rode on horseback at an elevation of over 9,000 feet. He told me he was in absolute awe of the scenery.

Jean

June 14, 2013

In the fall of 1965, Roger went elk hunting near the Bighorn National Forest area in Wyoming.

Jean

June 13, 2013

This photo is of Roger at work on a Milwaukee job site. He was gaining experience and recognition in preparing to one day run his own company.

Brad & Jean Oswald

June 13, 2013

By August 1965, Airman Steckhan had received three promotions in his military career. He was attending courses to become a Jet Engine Specialist. During this period Roger was being recognized for his brilliance and ability to get the job done.

Awards Biography

June 10, 2013

1965 - We had asked Roger to take over and manage the Pine View Motel. He quickly refused. He was honored and dedicated to serve his country instead.

Mom and Dad

June 10, 2013

1965 - Loretta Young joined us at our Sunday dinners. Roger and Loretta spoke of marriage. Jean spoke of going to college. We knew we had to prepare for the "Empty Nest." With us it happened slowly so we were not jolted all at once.

Mom and Dad

June 10, 2013

This photo is of Dr. Donald Kramer and his daughter, Dr. Donale Lenhardt. Because Jean worked as Dr. Kramer's Dental Assistant (1962-65), we all became very dear friends. Roger drove Jean home from work if we were unable to provide transportation.

Mom & Dad

June 10, 2013

1965 - Roger, unintentionally, took command of a room when he entered. Therefore, I knew he would one day be his own boss and manage his own company by himself.

Jean

June 3, 2013

1964 - With having the same first associations and habits in life, I realized we were similar and loved many of the same things. We both loved to ride horses.

Jean

June 3, 2013

I believe a sister and a brother see each other in their most true and fundamental self. I knew how much Roger loved to be in Wyoming.

Jean

June 2, 2013

1964 - In the fall, Roger and his friends went elk hunting in Wyoming for two weeks.

Mom & Dad & Jean

June 2, 2013

We soon learned that no matter how far Roger would travel, no matter how much time lapsed, he always remained devoted to his family.

Mom & Dad & Jean

June 2, 2013

1964 - Mom was glad and sad when Roger had been gone the longest time away from home. Dad and I saw the powerful and enduring love between a mother and her son. It was a place that Dad and I could not go.

Jean

June 2, 2013

1964 - For the next two years, David Ircink is employed at Kilps & Sons Builders, Inc. He works on the construction of new homes and home remodeling.

Steckhan Family Photo

May 31, 2013

This photo is of Alvin Sweeney and Carolyn Schubring. Family get togethers were still frequent.

Sweeney Family Photo

May 31, 2013

This photo is of Jean and her date. We missed Roger when he wasn't there to evaluate and critique who Jean was dating. Roger was concerned, protective and watched her curfew.

Mom & Dad

May 31, 2013

Upon completion of Basic, Roger was sent to Sheppard AFB to attend the Reciprocating Engine Specialist Technical Course. He graduated as the Outstanding Graduate and was promoted to Airman Second Class on June 18, 1964.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 31, 2013

1964 - It was easy for Roger to balance his work schedule with his military training. Because of Roger's high recommendations from his college professors, several companies contacted him to join their staff.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 28, 2013

On December 18, 1963, Roger discussed his enthusiasm after enlisting part-time in the Wisconsin Air National Guard.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 26, 2013

In December 1963, we began a family ritual. No more cooking on Sunday evenings. We locked the motel office with a note directing that all of us could be located next door if needed.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 25, 2013

Arthur and Mae Steckhan at their lake home in Minocqua, WI.

Steckhan Family Photo

May 23, 2013

1963 - Roger visited his grandparents as often as he could.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 23, 2013

1963- This photo is of Clarence and Verna Gehrmann with Mae Steckhan sitting in front. A Thanksgiving family celebration before Arthur and Mae Steckhan sell their home.

Steckhan Family Photo

May 23, 2013

Gail and Bob Gehrmann help and support their grandparents with their decision to move to Northern Wisconsin.

Steckhan Family Photo

May 23, 2013

On weekends, Roger helped his grandparents move to Minocqua. During the week Roger worked full time as a Mechanical Engineer while still attending night school.

Steckhan Family Photo

May 23, 2013

In the summer of 1963, Roger went elk hunting in Montana for two weeks.

Mom & Dad & Jean

May 23, 2013

1963 - The other dog, Sammy, also recovered in 48 hours and was back to normal health. Roger and I, as a management team, were never asked to run the motel again.

Jean

May 22, 2013

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Schramka-Borgwardt Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Hales Corners

11030 West Forest Home Ave, Hales Corners, WI 53130

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