Steven (Robert) Wehtje, 64, of Hemingford, NE, unexpectedly passed away on January 16, 2024 after health complications.
Steve was born in Walla Walla, WA, on August 2, 1959 to Robert Wehtje of Hemingford, NE and Marcia (Howard) Wehtje of Walla Walla, WA. He was the oldest of 5 children.
He spent his early years enjoying the sun in Watsonville, CA, where his family eventually moved to Hemingford, NE, to start a new farming adventure. He spent his younger years exploring and working hard on his father’s farm and ranch. Then went on to attend Platte Valley Academy where he graduated in 1978. After graduation from PVA, he moved to Lincoln, NE, to attended Union College, where he met his late wife Cindee (Werts) Wehtje. They married in May of 1980 and relocated to Alliance, NE, where Steve spent his time working on the farm, which was his passion and love. The two had a daughter in 1982. They spent several years of their marriage moving around Nebraska, to Colorado, Oregon and eventually returning to Osceola, NE. In the fall of 2002, Cindee went to be with the Lord.
Steve returned to the farm, where he eventually met his wife, Lisa (Ward) Wehtje. They united in marriage on June 20, 2009. Steve and Lisa moved to Bellevue, NE, where they resided for 8 years. During that time, he enjoyed his job at Neco as machine operator. In June 2023 he and Lisa had the great opportunity to purchase his childhood farm home where they returned and spent the remainder of his life.
Steve was a stubborn man, who always felt the need to do things on his own and do it his way. He loved to make jokes and prank people whenever he had the opportunity. He loved cars and in his younger years spent time on the race track. He was a music lover and self-taught to play the guitar. He loved working with his hands and fixing everything he could. He was always trying to protect everyone he loved. He had many who loved him and enjoyed his company over the years.
Steve leaves behind his Loving wife, Lisa, his mother Marcia Wehtje, children, Brandi (Wehtje) Downs (husband) Adam, Lawrence, Heather, Zachery and Nicholas Callahan, grandchildren Ava Wehtje, Addy Downs, Megan Callahan, Macy Sands, Kameron Callahan, Jag Downs, Navaeh Sands, Jaxson Callahan, his siblings Ron Wehtje (fiancé) Allison, Diana (Wehtje) Gustavsen (husband) Eric, Curt Wehtje, nieces and nephews and step-mother Rose Wehtje.
He is preceded in death by his father; Robert Wehtje, first wife; Cindee (Werts) Wehtje, sister; Renee Wehtje and mother-in-law Lilly Steele.