Stephen Paul Knoetzel

Stephen Paul Knoetzel, a devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away on November 13, 2025, in Imperial, Nebraska with family by his side. He was born on November 23, 1957, in Bassett, Nebraska to Courtney Charles and Mary Lou (Lanz) Knoetzel.

Steve grew up in Bassett and graduated from Rock County High School in 1976. His career was marked by a strong work ethic that was second to none, showcasing his dedication and commitment over more than 30 years with New Holland, both in Bassett and Imperial. Upon his retirement from New Holland on April 1, 2012, he immediately began a new chapter at Car Quest the very next day, embodying his passionate drive for hard work and after some time, transitioned to Imperial Beef, where he remained until he could no longer physically work.

Beyond his professional life, Steve had a love for understanding how things worked. He enjoyed repairing and fixing items, often taking pleasure in disassembling them to uncover their inner workings. His hands were seldom idle as he found joy in woodworking, pursuing his passion of music, shooting sports, fishing, and the pursuit of wild asparagus during his rare moments of leisure.

A highlight of Steve's life was his marriage to Carrie Clark on July 8, 1986. The couple exchanged vows on a pontoon boat in Lamar, Nebraska, a testament to their love and shared adventures. Together, they raised a family that included their son, Sam, now along with his wife, Jessie, and was later blessed with four grandchildren: Charlie, Erin, JoLynn, and Samuel. Steve deeply cherished the time spent with his loved ones, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love.

He is survived by his wife, Carrie; son, Sam (Jessie); brother, Dave (Linda) of Bassett, NE; sisters, Karen (Darcy) Mickelson of Storla, SD, Mary Ann (Bill) Krejci of Aurora, NE, and Faye Gordon of Lincoln, NE; and his four loving grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews he treated as his own.  

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Joe and Stu; and his nephew, Scott Knoetzel.

A Funeral Service will be held in his honor on November 18, 2025, at the Champion Community Building in Champion, Nebraska, beginning at 10:00 a.m. and concluding at 11:00 a.m. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his remarkable work ethic, and his passion for life. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know and love him.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 18, at 10:00 A.M. (MT) at the Champion Community Building, with Carrie Knoetzel officiating. Interment to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Imperial.