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APPLETON, WI – Steve Brian Niemi, 54, of Appleton, Wisconsin, passed away on September 12, 2026, at Froedtert Hospital in Milwaukee, with his wife and children by his side. He was born December 31, 1971, in Ishpeming, Michigan, to Toivo "Jake" and Eleanore (Heikkila) Niemi. Being the youngest of eight children, he was lovingly spoiled...possibly being a little stinker at times! He loved to tinker with motorcycles and snowmobiles, even at a young age. Those skills stayed with him throughout his life, and he became the person everyone called whenever something needed fixing.
He met his wife, Jana, in high school, and they have been inseparable ever since. They were married on May 23, 1997. After college, they relocated to Wisconsin. Steve worked at Printron Engravers as a tool and die maker until he ventured out full time into homebuilding, real estate, and investing. He attended Christ the Rock Church in Menasha.
He and Jana's priority was raising Chanler and Chase and surrounding them with their time, attention, and love. They were heavily involved in their children's daily activities, always advising and encouraging them. He was passionately and humbly proud of his children and all of their accomplishments. He never sought recognition himself, but he was a huge driving force behind the people they are today. He loved his children deeply, and nothing brought him greater happiness than being their dad!
Taking after his father, Steve was a master chef of home-cooked meals. He was known for whipping up a delicious soup or dish with no recipe needed. He loved the adventure of finding and trying new supper clubs, spending time at their cottage, and boating. He and Jana traveled extensively and always wanted their kids along for the adventure. He started each day with a phone call to both of his kids, fulfilling his job as their daily instigator.
Steve had a gift for making everyone in a room feel valued and seen. His sense of humor and the light he radiated were entirely his own, impossible to describe to anyone who never met him and impossible to forget for anyone who did! His characteristics were commonly described as "unique," and that he was. He was always smiling and laughing and had an enthusiasm for life that was contagious to those around him. He lived his life to the fullest each and every day! His friend group was endless, as he was loved by everyone he met. He was wholeheartedly generous and helped many. And he always, always wore his white baseball cap.
He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Jana (Tasson) Niemi; his children, Chanler Niemi Hochman (husband Taylor Hochman), and Chase Niemi (fiancée Arabelle Green); his mother, Eleanore Niemi; and his siblings, Jean Niemi Werth, Greg Niemi (Kris), Donna Wetts, Jason Niemi (Michelle), Kurtis Niemi. His in-laws Steve (Sheri) Tasson, Kevin Tasson,
Craig (Patty) Tasson, Dara (Gene) Flink, Jason (Lacey) Tasson, Deb Niemi, and Pete LaPin. Also, his beloved dog, Dexter.
He was preceded in death by his dad, Toivo “Jake” Niemi. His father- and mother-in-law Jim and Fay Tasson. His sister Sonia Lapin, and brother, Jack Niemi Sr. Brother-in-law Michael Werth, and sister-in-law Amy Tasson.
He is further survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, many of whom called him their Best Friend!
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established in Steve's name and will be directed to children in need. He was a strong supporter of Wears Valley Ranch in Sevierville, TN and St. Jude Children's Hospital.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 18th from 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. with a short service to follow at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 North Richmond Street Appleton, WI 54911. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com