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Steven Wirtz Obituary
Steve spent most of his adult life loving being a dad to his five children who survive him, Robert Wirtz, Kari Gallagher (Jason), Dane Wirtz (Sarah), Erika LiaBraaten (Brent), and Jameson Wirtz, all from the local area. He loved playing with his six grandchildren. He is survived by Kathleen Wirtz, his spouse of 31 years.
Steve was born in Longview July 18, 1955, to Richard and Elaine Wirtz who survive him in Longview. He is also survived by siblings, Randy Wirtz and Todd Wirtz, both of Olympia, Alan Wirtz of Seattle and Polly Hill (Jim) of Battleground.
Steve graduated from Mark Morris High School in 1973 and attended colleges in Seattle and Bellingham. He returned to Longview where he married Kathleen Dec. 13, 1975. After three years as a pulp tester at Longview Fibre Co., he began the journeyman process to become a union carpenter through Local 1707 in 1978. As a father of five young children, he returned to college to become a math teacher. He graduated from Portland State University with a BS in math in 1986 followed by a masters in teaching. He spent six years teaching at Tenino High School before starting his teaching career in Longview in 1997.
Steve was the youngest of five kids who were all avid swimmers and he passed his mother's love of swimming onto his own five kids. Steve coached swimming for several community teams. He also coached many of his children's soccer and basketball teams. He loved the out-of-doors which took him Boy Scouting, hiking, sail boating, camping, fishing, golfing, and to the local parks with grandchildren. Steve was an avid organic gardener and backyard farmer. Steve enjoyed playing games and was especially fond of pinochle and Scrabble. He was the "fix-it" man for family and friends. Steve loved and laughed, his smile was infectious. Christ was an important part of Steve's life and he attended several local churches throughout his life.
A celebration of Steve's life will be held at 4:30 p.m. Thursday at Father's House, 1315 Commerce Ave., in Longview with a potluck to follow. Columbia Funeral Service is handling arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to the Community Home Health & Hospice, P.O. Box 2067, Longview, WA 98632.
Please sign the guest book at www.tdn.com/obits.
This obituary was originally published in The Daily News (Longview, WA).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
February 4, 2010
Tom and I would like to extend our sympathy to the Wirtz family. It is never easy to say goodbye to someone we love.
Our prayers are with you all at this time.
Sincerely,
Allison Hutchinson
Alyson
February 4, 2010
So sorry for your loss, Mr. Wirtz was the best math teacher! He's the reason why I love math so much, I just wanted to say I'm sorry for your loss. God Bless
February 1, 2010
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to you Kathleen and your wonderful family. You were a great host family. We'll never forget the graciousness that Steve gave to Ellie when she was swimming and struggling in Longview Schools. He will be greatly missed.
Jennifer Feusner Leach
February 1, 2010
Kathleen and Family:
May the memories of Steve keep you going this time of sorrow and grief.
Not only do I remember both of you as classmates at Mark Morris but I know that Steve was well respected in the district as a math teacher and will be missed as he had a significant impact on his students.
My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family and may God bless you in your time of sorrow.
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January 31, 2010
We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to know this wonderful family who made us feel so welcome in the USA after many years overseas. We truly share your loss. The Wirtz home is a standing memorial to Steve's abilities as a carpenter, fix-it man and backyard gardener. We are deeply grateful to have known him for the short time we did and to know the special family he left behind. We extend all our love, sincere condolences and may the comfort of God touch you all deeply at this time.
Neil, Jill, John, Zach and Abby Groves
anomous
January 30, 2010
Knowing Steve and the entire Wirtz
family...it is so awesome reading thru
the sign ins from so many students
and people from out of the area now.
Steve would of been over welmed by
the respect that he "comanded" in is
everyday persona.He has touched and enriched so many lives, more than he
will ever know. Hopefully this is
of great comfort to the family
Peter & Heidi Tokarz
January 29, 2010
Our deepest sympathy. Steve holds an impact in our lives as do all of you. We are thinking of you all and are deeply sorry for your enormous loss.
Meghan
January 28, 2010
Mr. Wirtz was a wonderful teacher. He was always calm with kind words; even when presented with troublesome teenagers. My thoughts are with his family, which he always spoke so fondly of.
Cole Blackstone
January 28, 2010
Mr. Wirtz you were such a patient kind math teacher, and everyone in our class my Senior Year of high school respected you. You were a great part of the staff at R. A. Long HS Mr. Wirtz and you will be missed by many. Thank you for your patience and kindness as a teacher to our rowdy class.
SKIP & SHIRLEY GALLAGHER
January 28, 2010
WE REMEMBER STEVE AS ALWAYS HAVING A BIG SMILE ON HIS FACE AND BEING SUCH A SWEET PERSON. HE WAS A WONDERFUL GRANDFATHER TO EMILY, PIPER,, OWEN, ADDISON, BRINN AND PAGE.
PLEASE EXCEPT OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCES FOR YOUR LOSS,
MUCH LOVE,
SKIP& SHIRLEY GALLAGHER
Maureen Jaspers
January 28, 2010
Steve is my brother-in-law, but so much more! My favorite nickname for Steve that I'm not sure he ever heard.....was "Uncle Steve the Safety Man"! Always said with love and endearment. He could have written a book on being a great father, grandfather and uncle! My kids and his as well as my sister Colleen's boys, were raised much more like siblings than cousins! Steve was the one who said "let's play baseball" and would organize a game; "get your towels and we'll go swimming in the lake" at a camping trip; "who wants to play a game?"! Whenever we were together he took all the kids under his wings as though they were his own. He earned the name "safety man" because every kid had to have on socks, shoes and a helmet for bike riding, etc., every precaution always taken to have a lot of fun, but safely! His loving efforts with his kids and mine, paid off! What a wonderful bunch of kids, young adults, parents and children they are! To watch his children caring for him during his illness was an absolute blessing! I look forward to the day we will share stories and laugh again in Heaven! He will be greatly missed and never forgotten! Love, Auntie Mo
Robert Monroe
January 28, 2010
Sorry to hear of your loss. Steve was a great person to know and be around. I was very fortunate to know him during my time at Mark Morris. We will certainly miss him.
January 28, 2010
I am so shocked and saddened by Steve's death. He was a dear friend of mine and I think of him often as I pass through the Kelso area. So many times I would think "I need to call Steve". I last saw Steve when he was working on enlarging the house and he was so busy we just talked for a short time. It is sad that time sneaks by as it does. I worked with Steve at Tenino High School as a fellow Science/Math teacher. We had many great times together. He was a valued colleague and I was sad he left us, but glad he finally could teach near home. Of course, sharing our faith as we did made us even closer. Kathy, I am confident God's grace and comfort, but I can only slightly understand your loss. Like so many, I will be praying for you all. I am grateful that I had the chance to know Steve. You were blessed to have such a wonderful husband and father. Best regards, Ron Abarta
Megan
January 28, 2010
To the family, I just want to say that I am so sorry for your loss. I know that I was only a student, and my freshmen year he probably wasn't too fond of me. However, I ended up having him each and every year. I feel bad because I feel like everyone but Mr. Wirtz knew how fond of him I was. I am away at school and my mom called me last night to tell me the news, and I couldn't believe it. I can't attend the service obviously and I feel like I need to at least show my respect in some form or another. Mr. Wirtz helped me through high school in so many ways that weren't required of his job, and I wish there was some way that I could tell him thank him now. May he rest in peace.
January 28, 2010
Erika, Brent and all the Wirtz family: Our sympathy in your loss. Thinking of you with heartfelt care and love,
Lowell and Alice Modin and family
Jan Slater
January 27, 2010
Kathy and family, I share in your loss of this loving man. I remember many late nights playing cards and watching Saturday Night Live in your home. Many very happy holidays and birthdays were spent together. Steve and you all were my family. I last talked with Steve about 20 years ago. I'm sorry that my family did not get to know him. I'll be looking for him at Heaven's doors.
Patty Erdman
January 27, 2010
Dear Wirtz Family, I will always remember how kind Steve was to my girls when he coached them on Killer Whales. Their success was always important to him. His kindness did not go unnoticed. Just remember...Good Memories Always Stay
Michaelyn Chess
January 27, 2010
I will never forget the math classes I had with Mr. Wirtz at RAL. He taught us much and will never be forgotten. May his family and loved ones know peace.
Christina Carpenter
January 27, 2010
To the Wirtz Family:
I'm sorry to hear that Steve had cancer. I will always remember his smile and all the Killer Whale and High School meets and practices. He was a joy to be around. Kari, Dean, Erika and Jameson: I wish where was something that I could say that would make you feel better.... Time does help heal, but it is slow! Your Dad Loved you guys and all the kids that he helped in school and the pool. I will alway remember him at the pool cheering someone on to the end of the pool!
Christina (Spink) Carpenter
Ray & Karen Daigh
January 27, 2010
We are sorry to hear of Steve's passing. He was a great father, son and husband. May God comfort you in this time of sorrow.
Linda Maddux Hennessy
January 27, 2010
Kathleen and family,
While it can't take away your pain, I hope that it helps to know that friends are sharing in your sorrow. Steve will be fondly remembered by the Mark Morris Class of 1973.
January 27, 2010
Steve I am going to miss you always and forever.It has been an honor to me to be your son-in-law. I will never forget the advice you gave me about being a first time father and what it takes to be a great dad. I can only hope to be the great father that you were. You were more than a grandfather to your grandchildren, you were a best friend and they will miss the fun times with grandpa at the park. Just know that you are truly loved Steve. Jason Gallagher
Killer Whales Swim Club
January 27, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Kim Franett-Fergus
January 27, 2010
Steve's infectious smile will bless us all from heaven. I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family.
January 27, 2010
We are saddened by the news of Mr.
Wirtz's passing. Our childern had him for thier math teacher at R.A.Long. Our prayers are with his families. The Weber Family
Janet Ritchie
January 27, 2010
Kathy and Family,
I am sorry for the loss of your husband, father and grandfather. Steve was a kind hearted fellow and I always loved seeing him smile at his children. He was so tender and gentle spirited when I saw him at church. We know he is at peace in the presence of The Lord. I pray for each of you that as you ponder the memories and replay them in your minds that your smiles will bring healing in your hearts.
Love and God Bless.
January 27, 2010
We are saddened by the news of Steve's passing. We very much appreciated the time he dedicated to the girls soccer team and working together with Larry. He will be missed. The Hembree Family
January 27, 2010
Kari: So sorry to read of your father's passing. I know you will miss him. I did not know him personally, but always heard great things about him. God bless you and your family at this time. Remember the good times! Darlene DeRosier
Mike Martin
January 27, 2010
To the Wirtz Family,
I was saddened to hear of Steve's passing. Steve was always the person in school that was a friend to everyone. I have very fond memories of him helping me through some tough classes. Always with a smile and grace. My sincere condolences on your loss.
"Lucky" Laidlaw
January 27, 2010
Steve; I remember the years with you in our boy scout troop 514 sponserd by the Community Church You will certainly be missed R.A.L. will certainly missed. May the good lord have a place for youi in Heaven.
God Bless You
Your X Scoutmaster.
"Lucky" Laidlaw
John Blackstone
January 27, 2010
I'm so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. I always had sumch fond memories of Steve, from the YMCA swim team and from Boy Scouts. He helped me build a small building in Woodland, where I benefited from his carpentry skills. I have fond memories of his whole family and their dedication to swimming and scouting, and I wish my condolences to all of you.
Roger & Sandy Hamm
January 26, 2010
Steve, Thanks you for your years of service to the swimming community and especially your dedication to the Killer Whales Swim Club. To the family of which we know as well our thoughts
and prayers are with you during this time.
Sheila Skillingstead
January 26, 2010
My condolences to your family at this time. I admired Steve as a mathematician and a person. He will be missed.
Janet Roulette & Don Talley
January 26, 2010
Kari and family,
I am so sorry about your Dad. The last time I saw him he was chasing Owen at one of Emily's soccer games, he had a big grin on his face. Though I had only met your Dad a few times, you didn't have to know him to realize he was a very special person with a kind soul and had a tender heart for his children and grandchildren. Blessings to you all.
Elizabeth McKenzie
January 26, 2010
Uncle Steve,
Your love and kindness will never be forgotten. I am blessed and honored to have you as an uncle.
Tony Laidlw
January 26, 2010
I spent several years with Steve in Boy Scout Troop 514. I remember his love of swimming and how he just wanted to have fun and make people laugh. It is good to hear that in that respect he never changed.
Jennifer Lorimer
January 26, 2010
Wirtz family: I do not know you well. I went to school with Kari and my mom attended Father's House with your family. I want to extend my condolences...I know the pain of losing a parent and a spouse too soon. I'm sorry doesn't seem enough but I am sorry that your family is experiencing this horrific grief. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
January 26, 2010
To the Wirtz family, We didn't get to talk much, but I did enjoy Steve and his family as neighbors and friends. He did a beautiful job on that house! I could tell Steve was a very devoted father. Such a loss is so hard to deal with. It helps to concentrate on all of those good memories! Sincerely, Dan Comer
Heather DeBolt (Pedersen)
January 26, 2010
To Kari and family: I am sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. May he rest in peace. He will be missed by many that know of him over the years. Take care of each other at this difficult time in your lives and remember the good, bad, old, and new memories that you all made with your dad, cherish them for forever!
Jamie Harms (Simpson)
January 26, 2010
I went to high school with Kari and swam with her on the swim team for 4 years. My prayers are with the Wirtz family during this difficult time.
January 26, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of Steve passing. Our prayers are with you all.Sue and Kathy Irwin and Judy Keatley
Ron Lehto
January 26, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Wirtz family. I knew Steve as a coach and a friend. He will be deeply missed.
Mary Jacobsen(McKee)
January 26, 2010
Haven't seen Steve since high school, but his passing saddens us all. Condolences to his family.
January 26, 2010
Will be missed , mike and connie dunlap.
Gordon/Micki Gillman
January 26, 2010
To the Wirtz family, Please accept our most profound wishes of sympathy to all of you. What a sad day for the whole community. Sincerely, Gordon and Micki Gillman
Bob Nichols
January 26, 2010
I was on the swim team at Mark Morris with Steve. He was always the nicest guy and quite the comedian. My prayers go out to his family.
Kari Gallagher
January 26, 2010
Dad.....you will be missed. I know you can hear all the songs Emily and Piper have been singing to you. We were blessed with your tenderness, kindness and love.
Richard Carr
January 26, 2010
I was a fortunate beneficiary of Steve's kind awareness of other people, his attention to their needs in difficult times, and his willingness to step outside himself to provide assistance to someone else. I will miss having his quiet support, thoughtful words, and generous nature around.
Mike and Carla Pedersen
January 26, 2010
To the entire Wirtz Family. We are so sorry for the loss of Steve. He loved his family very much. Lots of great memories and he was so thrilled to get to see his newest grandbaby and was very proud of all his children and grandchildren. What a neat guy to know. God Bless.
Mike and Carla Pedersen
Melvin Behrend
January 26, 2010
I know it is hard to loose your mate and your Father and Gradfather. My thoughts are with you at this time.
Rose Richter-Miller
January 26, 2010
Kathleen and family,
So sorry for your loss of Steve. Lynette and I came to visit you when we were teenagers in the 70's (a looong time ago). But I remembered you and Steve. Since teen years have passed, I too, have become a believer, and we know that Steve is with the Lord. My heart goes out to you and all your family. Will be praying for you all.
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