Steven Niese

Steve was a hardworking man with skilled hands, a loyal heart, and a strong faith guiding him every step. He dedicated 35 years to Wards Material in Leipsic, and you would often hear his favorite sayings: “tough as nails” and “better than new.” If he wasn’t staying to help someone else, he was on his way home — because there was always work to do. Keeping his lawn mowed, house, and property in the best condition.

He built a life full of purpose and passion. Steve loved deer hunting in the quiet woods, riding his Harley on the open road, and the friendships he formed through meetings where he not only stayed sober for nearly 14 years — he helped others find strength, hope, and a new beginning.

He took pride in every job he ever worked — from his early years at Bill Hill Trucking, to time spent as a mechanic, and moving heavy equipment with Wards Construction. He was gifted in fixing and building things, and even built his own shop with sheer talent and determination.

Steve was married to Jana (Hock) for 15 years, and together they built a family he was proud of. He was the father of Sherry Valdez, Carla Treadway, Steven Eugene, and Devin Inbody, and he became a grandpa who loved cheering on his grandkids at their games or stopping by to share vegetables or fruit from his garden. Later in life, he remarried, loved his step-grandchildren, and enjoyed horsing around, building them playsets, and going on golf cart rides.

He had a soft spot for animals and a heart that never turned away from something in need. One of his favorite stories last shared was stopping to help a lost baby fawn find its way. Over the years, he enjoyed time with many loyal dogs and even horses he owned. He kept purple martin houses on his property and took pride in preparing for winter the old-fashioned way — cutting and splitting wood.

Steve was frugal, resourceful, and incredibly strong — not just in muscle, but in spirit. His faith in God was steady and quiet, shown through the way he helped others without ever asking for credit.

Steve leaves behind a legacy built from hard work, courage, compassion, and love — a life lived boldly, a family deeply loved, and countless lives touched by his generosity and grit. To those who knew him, he was more than a helper — he was a hero, with strong hands and a big heart.