Stephen "Steve" Wayne-Patrick Bathke

Stephen”Steve” Wayne-Patrick Bathke, age 36, of Gleason, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 13, 2024, while at work in Rib Mountain, WI.  He was born on March 17, 1988, in Milwaukee, WI and was the son to the late James Bathke.  Steve attended and graduated from Antigo High School.  He married his best friend and love of his life, Patricia Zahurones, on June 6, 2020.  She survives.   Together, they were raising their 2-year-old son: Clyde.

Steve was currently employed at Ryder Transportation in Rib Mountain, WI as a diesel mechanic.  First and foremost, in his life, was his son.   He adored him and was attentive to his every need.  Family was a priority for Steve, especially his wife and son.  They had just come back from a memorable and fun family vacation in the Dominican Republic.  Steve loved to be outside, whether it was going for a walk with Patricia and Clyde, casting a line to catch that big bass, or hunting in the woods for a wall-hanger!  He enjoyed “tinkering” with machinery of any kind and would come up with all types of survival tools.  Steve loved his animals, especially his Dobermans.  He is remembered as a kind, strong and determined man, that was also loyal and compassionate.  Steve will be missed dearly, but the memory of him will live on.

Steve leaves behind his wife: Patricia “Trish” Bathke, his pride and joy, his son: Clyde Bathke, brother: James (Rachel) Bathke, sister: Tania (Shannon) Hoffman, nephews: Walker and Wyatt Bathke, niece and goddaughter: Willow Bathke.  He is further survived by his beloved pets, his dogs: Zeus and Dixie, cats, chickadees and his pet turkey: “Big Pimpin”.   He was preceded in death by his father, uncle: Danny Bathke, cousin: Bobby Bathke and dogs: Mieyah and Ellie.

A Celebration of Life for Steve will take place on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill.  Rev. David J. Sutton will officiate.  Visitation will take place on Saturday, May 25, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home.  

In lieu of cut flowers, family requests that vegetable plants, trees or perennials be sent so that the family can plant them in memory of Steve.

A special thank you goes to the employees at Ryder Transportation that tried to assist Steve in his time of need.  Your efforts were truly appreciated.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.   Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.