Steven Schimek

Steve Schimek, age 44 of Cottage Grove passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, April 4, 2012.

Steve was born in Wells on June 16, 1967, the son of Joseph and Rita (LaCanne) Schimek. Steve was raised in Easton where he attended high school. He attended Mankato State University and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree, Master's Project Management, Master Black Belt Six Sigma, and Microsoft Certification. He was proud of his service with the United States Marine Corp, serving his term in California from 1985 to 1986. Steve married Michelle (Roach) Felix on April 20, 1991 in Easton. They lived in Cottage Grove where they raised their three children. Steve was a longtime employee of AT&T. He loved NASCAR, fishing, playing X-Box and debating politics with his neighbors. Steve's greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family to whom he was truly devoted. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Steve is survived by his wife of 21 years Michelle; children, Alexander (Megan Martin), Stephanie, and Maria; granddaughter, Maiyah; mother, Rita Schimek; brothers, Kevin (Jen) Schimek and Dean (Theresa) Schimek; sisters, Mary Lu (Dave) Nemgar, Sandy (Tom) Benz, and LuAnn (Patrick) Simons; mother-in-law, Denise (Larry) Walton; sisters-in-law; Kate (Steven) Peer, Cindy (Rick) Long, Lisa (Bill) Gossman and Jenifer (Chris) Kovacs; brother-in-law, Mark (Katie) Roach; 33 nieces and nephews and many friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph Schimek and father-in-law, Robert Roach.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at The Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th St. S., Cottage Grove. A visitation will be on Monday, April 9, 2012 from 5-8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7 pm at Kok Funeral Home in Cottage Grove, 7676 80th St., Cottage Grove. Interment will be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Easton, MN on Wednesday, April 11, 2012.