Stephen Arthur Litsheim, 75, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, passed away on February 10, 2026. Steve fought bravely against brain cancer after his diagnosis in September. Though he faced the battle with determination and strength, some battles cannot be won.

Steve was born on February 17, 1950, and raised in La Crosse by his parents, Jacqueline Secrist and Arthur Litsheim Jr. He was the oldest of seven siblings: Ted (Ceil), Brad, Ron (Mai), Katy (Gary), Karen (Don), and Suzanne (Kate). During this painful transition, his family came together in a way that reflected the deep love they shared. Though the time felt impossibly short, it was also emotionally long, and the immediate family is profoundly grateful for the support, presence, and care shown by one another.

Steve shared his life with his partner, Kathy Litsheim, and was the proud father of two sons, Sean (Heather), Ryan (Julie) and one daughter, Megan (Kevin). Family remained by his side throughout this journey, serving as a powerful reminder of how deeply connected they were and how important family truly is.

Steve was a proud grandfather to Angelo, Lauren, Sarah, Brock, and Calvin (children of Sean); Kyla, Rayna, and Landon (children of Ryan); and David and James Stephen, “Jimmy Steve,” (children of Megan). He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Braxton (child of Kyla), Quinten and Findley (children of Lauren), and Alexander (child of Sarah). When asked near the end of his life what he loved most and missed the most, Steve’s answer was simple and clear: spending time with his grandchildren.

Steve also shared a lifelong bond with his closest friends Chuck Faust, Lee Hayek, and Jay Jaeger. They were more than friends; they were family. For years, Fridays were theirs, a standing tradition filled with laughter, stories, and the easy comfort of people who truly knew one another. Their friendship was a steady and meaningful part of Steve’s life, and he treasured it deeply.

Steve’s identity was long associated with his business, Midwest Tileworks, which he ran for decades. He built the business from the ground up and while at times, it was difficult, he managed to be successful.   I think his employees, whom he thought of as his friends, would agree that he was always there for them. He was generous, engaging, and full of life.

He was the kind of man who could strike up a conversation with anyone, even a stranger in the grocery store line, and leave having made a friend. He cherished his relationships and valued his friends and family more than most will ever know.

True to who he was, Steve wanted a celebration, a real party. A celebration of life will be held in early summer, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the life he lived so fully.

“Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”

— Richard Bach, Illusions, the final book Steve shared with his daughter, a source of comfort during his final days.