A Celebration of Steve's Life
Thursday, November 12, 2026
3:00 PM to 6:00 PM CST
La Sure's Banquet Hall
3125 S. Washburn Street
Oshkosh, WI 54904
Life Story / Obituary
Steven Allan Tesch, age 73, was born and raised in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Herbert and Lu Tesch. As the oldest son, Steve grew up in a family that would remain an important part of his life. Throughout the years, he built lasting friendships, made countless memories, and found joy in the things he loved most: his family, sports, music, and spending time with the people who meant the most to him.
On March 11, 1983, Steve married the love of his life, Catharine Meredith. Together, they built a life and raised three children, Barbara, Eric, and Brian. Family was at the heart of Steve’s life, he was a proud godfather and one of his greatest joys was becoming a grandfather. He especially treasured his ten grandchildren and he loved attending their activities, cheering them on, and being present for the moments that mattered to them. His pride in his family was evident, and the memories they shared will remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Steve’s love of sports began long before he became a devoted Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan. He played football and baseball in high school and continued playing beyond those years. Over time, he became part of several baseball and fast-pitch softball teams, including Mueller Chrysler, Evil Roy Slades, Reds Pizza, and Witzkes. He was proud of the teams he played for and the friendships formed along the way. Sports were more than a pastime for Steve; they were a lifelong passion that brought people together and gave him plenty of stories to share.
Outside of sports, Steve had an impressive knowledge of music trivia, often knowing more than most. He enjoyed a variety of activities and traditions, including bowling, weekend camping trips with family and friends, the annual Greater Beecher Open and other golf outings, hunting at the cabin, and attending Hodag. Whether gathered around a campfire, spending time outdoors, or enjoying a weekend away, Steve appreciated the simple pleasures of being with good people and making memories.
Steve had a way of making friends wherever he went. There seemingly wasn’t anyone who didn’t enjoy his company, and often it seemed like he knew everybody. He could strike up a conversation with just about anybody, whether it was through bartending at TNT or sharing a beverage at a local establishment. As a longtime member of Elks Lodge #292, Steve enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships that came with being part of the organization. He especially loved his trip to Ireland, creating memories he would always treasure. He understood that some of life’s best moments didn’t require anything elaborate, just familiar faces, a good conversation, and time together.
Steve will be deeply missed by his wife, Catharine; his children, Barbara (Eric), Eric (April), and Brian (MacKenzie); and his ten beloved grandchildren, Madysen, Sophia, Grayson, Carly, Ellie, Keira, Nelson, Lofton, Porter, and Turner. He is also survived by his brothers, Dan Tesch, Larry (Michele) Tesch, and Jim (Sue) Tesch, all of Oshkosh; his sister, Judy (Kevin) Winkler of Darboy, Wisconsin; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Lu Tesch, mother-in-law Barbara Meredith, brothers-in-law Michael Meredith, Bradley Harring, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and son-in-law Joshua Probst.
A celebration of life will be held from 3-6 PM on Thursday, November 12 at La Sure’s Banquet Hall. In honor of Steve’s lifelong passion for sports, the family invites you to wear your favorite sports apparel to the celebration. Burial services will be private.