Jesse James Steinhoff passed away on November 2, 2026, at the age of 51. He was born on August 9, 1975, to Rita Rutta and David Lepinski and was adopted at birth by Thomas and Mary Ann (Stefka) Steinhoff, who lovingly raised him in Sparta, Wisconsin.
Jesse attended St. Patrick’s School through eighth grade and graduated from Sparta High School. He later worked as a truck driver. Approximately 25 years ago, Jesse reconnected with his biological family and enjoyed getting to know them.
Jesse loved sports and his motorcycle. He played a variety of sports while growing up and took great pride in teaching his children to play baseball, basketball, football, and volleyball. He was a devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and, during football season, proudly cheered, “Bear Down!” for his Chicago Bears.
His other interests included hunting, attending bow shoots, going to dirt-track races, and working out at the gym. Above all, Jesse’s greatest joys in life were his children, Hunter, Ryley, and Scarlett.
Jesse is survived by his sons, Hunter (Alayna) Steinhoff and Ryley Steinhoff, both of Sparta, and his daughter, Scarlett Steinhoff of Bangor. He is also survived by his mother, Rita Turzinski of Wisconsin Rapids; his grandmother, Kathryn (Paukert) Schmidt; his sister, Christy (Mark) Stelzner; his brothers, David (Sherry) Steinhoff, Kevin (Angie) Steinhoff, Brian Steinhoff, Garrett Raatz (Sara), and Tanner (Maggie) Lepinski; his godmother, Linda; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Mary Ann (Stefka) Steinhoff; his biological father, David Lepinski; his stepfather, Bobbi Turzinski; his brother, Zachary Wanta; his grandparents, Bernard and Catherine Steinhoff, Charles and Mary Ann Stefka, Eugene Rutta, and Carl and Alice (Feltz) Lepinski; and his step-grandfather, John Schmidt.
A private ceremony will be held for the family.
The family would like to thank Sparta and Bangor Area Cancer Support and St. Croix Hospice Services for their kindness and support. They also extend their heartfelt gratitude to all family and friends for their love and support during this difficult time.
Condolences may be made to the family by visiting CouleeCremation.com.
Coulee Region Cremation Group
