Obituary of Dr. Steve Bierlein
October 2, 1959 to September 29, 2024
Dr. Steve Bierlein went to his heavenly home having lived a life of service to his Lord and Savior, his family and his patients. He set an example of determination and bravery in facing a deadly cancer diagnosis, as he continued to live each moment of his life treating it as a blessing, serving others and remaining unflagging in his faith in God.
Steve was a hometown boy, having lived in Frankenmuth his whole life. He attended St. Lorenz Lutheran School, was confirmed at St. Lorenz, and graduated from Frankenmuth High School. He continued his education at Ferris State University where he graduated as a Doctor of Optometry with High Distinction.
He married Connie (Weber) Bierlein on April 15,1989, also a lifetime resident of Frankenmuth, who survives him. With a twinkle in his eye, Steve liked to say it was the perfect Frankenmuth courtship as they frequently saw one another at St. Lorenz Church and Tiffany’s.
Steve is also survived by their two children, Zachary and Joshua Bierlein, and took an active interest in their education, sports participation, and musical talents.
Steve’s father, Donald Bierlein, predeceased him. He was also predeceased by his father-in-law, Harold Weber and his mother-in-law, Marcella Weber. His mother, Mildred Bierlein of Frankenmuth, survives him, as well as his brother-in-law Tom (Vickey) Weber, sister-in-law Susan (Tim) Weiss, nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.
Perhaps most people in town knew Steve for his optometry work at his Family Eye Care Center, where he served patients with pride and care for 38 years. His professional work beyond his practice shows how important it was to him to contribute to his field. He was a member of the Michigan and American Optometric Association, a team leader for legislative affairs for the MOA for over twenty years, and served as President, Vice-President, and Secretary for the Saginaw Valley Optometric Association.
He was active in many capacities at St. Lorenz Church as well as a member and director of the Frankenmuth Jaycees.
What so many will remember about Steve is his availability to patients in any emergency, his dry sense of humor, and his genuine interest in getting to know them by taking his time with each one. As he himself said, “I never wanted any patient to feel rushed or not listened to. My interest in the welfare of my patients is the primary reason I loved my work. Patient first.”
Steve’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the doctors, nurses, and staff of Covenant Oncology and VNA Hospice for all their compassionate care. He will be greatly missed by many people, but his family and friends are at peace in knowing that he has found new comfort with his Lord.
Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, 1030 W. Tuscola, Frankenmuth, Michigan. Steve’s family will receive visitors at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. on Friday from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Saturday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. In lieu of flowers those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Lorenz Media Ministry, or The Dr. Steven Bierlein Memorial Fund c/o Frankenmuth Community Foundation.
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