Steven Schaefer

MADISON- Steven J Schaefer, age 66, passed away on Friday, December 1. He fought a courageous battle for the past several weeks but, sadly, succumbed to complications from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ulcerative Colitis and Pneumonia. The family would like to thank everyone who joined this fight and hoped for his recovery.

Steve was born in Watertown, Wisconsin on July 21, 1951 to Robert and Barbara Schaefer. He married his wife, Jacquie, on July 6, 1979.

Steve graduated from the University of Wisconsin and received his law degree from the UW Law School In 1977. He practiced law in Madison for over 35 years.

In 2001, he established the Camp Randall Rowing Club as a non-profit junior competitive rowing program and commenced the capital campaign to restore the Brittingham Boathouse on Monona Bay. Today, the Club supports the junior rowing program along with Learn-To-Row classes and a WeCanRow program targeted to female cancer survivors. The Brittingham Boathouse was one of Steve's proudest accomplishments and his legacy to the City of Madison that he loved so much.

He is survived by his wife, Jacquie, his treasured daughter, Claire Schaefer Oleksiak, son-in-law, TJ Oleksiak, and a grandson, Owen, 3, who was his best buddy and the light of his life.

He is also survived by his mother, Barbara, two sisters, Kathy O'Malley and Linda Schaefer and two brothers, Tom Schaefer and Jerry Schaefer.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and two brothers, Phil Schaefer and David Schaefer.

A gathering to honor Steve will take place on Sunday, December 10 from 1-4 pm in the Grand Terrace Room at the Monona Terrace with a short program beginning at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please remember Steve's big heart and show kindness in this world.

Please share your memories of Steven.

Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Rd, Madison
608-238-3434