12/01/2025
In memory of Steven Buntjer.
Steven M. Buntjer, 79, of Black Creek went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Steve lived a life rooted in faith and service. He was born on June 14, 1946, the first born to the late Merle and Adith (Blochowitz) Buntjer in Worthington, MN. In 1959 the Buntjer family sold their farm in northwest Iowa to move to Wisconsin to begin dairy farming north of Black Creek.
Steve graduated from Seymour High School. At age 19, Steve was drafted into the US Army and served in Vietnam as a helicopter crew chief / door gunner.
When Steve returned from Vietnam, he worked in the area for a short time before moving to Tulsa, OK to attend aeronautics school on the GI bill. He then returned to Wisconsin again before deciding to move to California to work with his uncle. Throughout the 1970's, Steve worked a wide variety of jobs as he traveled throughout the country. Those that knew Steve might recall some of the many stories he had about his life experiences during that time. There were more than a few occasions that people suggested he write a book.
Steve eventually returned home to Wisconsin to raise his son. He worked for MCC Inc. for many years until his retirement.
A true people person - Steve was someone who never met a stranger. He enjoyed playing cards, tending to his garden and attending his son's and granddaughters' school and sporting events. He was a familiar face at many gatherings throughout the area, either volunteering and/or attending- some of his favorites included the Outagamie County Fair, the Symco Thresheree, and the Manawa Rodeo.
Steve always believed in serving others and putting the needs of others ahead of his own - he was a member of the Nichols Rural Fire Department, Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Black Creek Duhm-Masch Post 332 of the American Legion and Vietnam Veterans of America. He felt it was important to educate youth about the Vietnam war - he participated in volunteer programs that went into local schools to speak and share.
Steve was a great father and grandfather - always willing to listen to and support his son and granddaughters. As a single parent, he and his son were very close and shared many special memories. He worked hard to provide for his son and raised him to do right. He genuinely cared about people and all of God's creation.
Steve had a strong Christian faith. He was very open and honest about his relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He followed Jesus as best as he knew how. Steve attended several churches in the area throughout his life - often volunteering in different roles and being actively involved in Bible studies.
Steve is survived by his son, Shaun (Carrie) Buntjer; his grandchildren, Briella and Lydia; his sisters, Mary (Gary) Arndt and Jeanne (Lynn) Kittelson; as well as his aunt, niece, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Merle and Adith Buntjer; his brother, Lee; and his sister, Lori.
Following Steve's wishes, a private family service will take place. Interment will be held at Emmanual Lutheran Cemetery in Seymour.
Please leave online condolences for the family at Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home website https://www.muehlboettcher.com/obituaries/steve-buntjer.