Howard "Steve" Stotesbery

Howard “Steve” Stotesbery, age 78, of Graceville, MN, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Fairway View Neighborhoods in Ortonville, MN.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Graceville, MN. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Mundwiler and Larson Funeral Home in Graceville with a prayer service to follow. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Thursday. Fr. David Breu will celebrate the Mass and interment will be at Graceville Consolidated Cemetery.

The service will be livestreamed and recorded and will be viewable at the bottom of this page.

Howard Stephen Stotesbery was born on September 4, 1945, in Graceville, MN, to Howard L. and Gertrude (Seifert) Stotesbery. Steve was a man of dedication and service, embodying the values of honor and commitment throughout his life.

Steve's journey began at Graceville High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1964. Following his education, he worked at Krook's Grocery store before being drafted into the United States Army on November 16, 1965. He served his country with valor in Vietnam until his honorable discharge on August 22, 1967. 

On June 13, 1970, Steve was united in marriage with Deborah Hoppe in Graceville. Together, they were blessed with two daughters.

After his military service, Steve pursued a career as an electrician. He attended Wahpeton State School of Science to hone his skills and embarked on a successful career in Fargo/Moorhead for over 14 years. In 1982, Steve returned to his roots in Graceville and established his own business, where he dedicated himself to his craft for three decades. He prided himself on doing the best job possible and leaving each place cleaner than he found it.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Steve was an active member of his community, being a part of Holy Rosary Catholic Church where he served as an usher, the Graceville American Legion, Knights of Columbus, and Disabled American Veterans. He found joy in simpler pleasures, whether it was hunting in his younger years, playing cards at family reunions, rooting for his favorite sports teams, or watching his favorite RFD shows. He also enjoyed two bus tours to see Danny O’Donnell and he was hoping to do that again soon.

Steve's true passion, however, was his family. He cherished spending time with his grandchildren watching The Three Stooges, war shows, and sports. He attended their activities and events with pride and enthusiasm. His love and support were unwavering, leaving an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Left to cherish Steve’s memory are his wife of 53 years, Debby of Graceville, MN; his daughters: Michelle (Mark) Buerkle of Springfield, MN; and Stacy Stotesbery (Perry Torgerson) of Bemidji, MN; three grandchildren: Mitchell, Brendon, and Bryan Buerkle all of Springfield, MN; siblings: David (Bonnie) Stotesbery of Clinton, MN; Phillip (Cyndy) Stotesbery of Pelican Rapids, MN; Bernie (Karla) Stotesbery of Alexandria, MN; Thomas (Debbie) Stotesbery of Redwood Falls, MN; James (Pam) Stotesbery of Clinton, MN; and JoAnne (John) Nerenz of Wheaton, MN; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Gertrude Stotesbery; and step-mother, Kathleen Stotesbery.