Steven Royce Leadholm

MADISON—Steve died at Meriter hospital in early morning November 4th, due to complications of pneumonia at age 89. He was a wonderful husband and father who will be greatly missed.

Born in Amery, WI to Chester and Ethyl Leadholm, he was the youngest of ten children. He attended Amery High School, where he was active all sports and exceptional in basketball. He also played drums in the band. He attended college at UW-River Falls and graduated from South Dakota State with a BS in Economics.

After college, he served in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed at Great Lakes Naval Base, where he met Karole Ahsmann, who became his loving wife of 64 years.

Steve was well-respected in the insurance adjustment field and was a member of several insurance organizations. He began his career in Eau Claire, WI, but soon moved to Madison, where he bought and ran Schiffler & Company for many years. After selling the company and “supposedly” retiring, he spent the next 19 years in a management position with Middleton Insurance.

Steve was an avid Wisconsin sports fan. He loved the Packers, Badgers and Brewers, and had season Badger basketball tickets for 60 years. He played sports, including pick-up basketball at The Shell and “Over 40” basketball and softball leagues. He also coached his son’s sports teams.

Steve was a very active, long-time member of Luther Memorial Church, where he served as Council President and Head Usher. Despite his dislike of technology, he also ran the audio system. He enjoyed the food fellowship of Luther Memorial.

Steve was part of a special neighborhood group, “The South Hill Gang.” He enjoyed their monthly get-togethers.

Steve and Karole took many wonderful trips, but his favorite place was the Leadholm Cabin on the Namekagon River.

Steve is survived by his wife Karole; sons Jeffery (Mary), and Gregory (Marcia); five grandchildren: Kira, William, Rachel, Megan and Jack; and many nieces and nephews. He has no living siblings.

Thanks to special family members, friends, and neighbors for all their help and support through this difficult time.

Funeral services will be held on December 7, 2024 at 11:00 am at Luther Memorial Church, 1021 University Ave., Madison WI. Visitation at 9:30 am. Memorials may be made to Luther Memorial Church. 

Please share your memories of Steve by posting in his Guestbook.

Cress Funeral Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434