Steven John Proehl

Steven Proehl, 66, passed away suddenly and peacefully at his home in Mankato on December 27, 2020. He was a kid at heart who loved people and had a deep faith.

Visitation will be held from 4-7p.m., Monday, January 4, 2021 at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary. Private burial will be at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church Cemetery in Fernando, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials be given in honor of Steve to MN Adult and Teen Challenge.

Steve never wanted to grow up. At the annual 4th of July celebration with extended family, he was the only adult who would play capture the flag with the kids. And, decades ago, he signed a written promise to go waterskiing at age 70. We trust that he will keep that promise behind a glitter orange speedboat in heaven.

He loved people and made everyone feel welcome. Fond memories include harvesting the fields of his family farm with his brother, taking epic snowmobiling trips, going to the shooting range with his buddies, and sipping wine with friends on the deck.

His life was grounded in his faith in Jesus Christ. He viewed his work as an insurance agent as part of his calling to serve, making house calls in rural Minnesota and caring deeply for his clients. He also volunteered for many years with the youth programs at his church.

Steve is survived by his wife, Cleone; two children, David Proehl (Heather) and Michelle Vitus (Allan); three stepchildren, Darrick Bogenrief (Angela), Cassie Bogenrief, Jarod Bogenrief (Jessie); six grandchildren; siblings Sandra Proehl, Doug Proehl (Carolyn), Barb Proehl (Bob), and Lois Proehl (Glen); and brother-in-law, Curt Pinnow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Iona Proehl, and sister, Marcia Pinnow.