Steven John Logterman, 43

Published 8:40 am Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Steven John Logterman, 43

Surrounded by his loving family at their Lakeville, Minnesota, home, Steven John Logterman, 43, passed away peacefully on Friday, Aug. 31, 2018.  Steve valiantly battled ALS for four years.

Steve was born on Sept. 21, 1974, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Stan and Carolyn (Boviall) Logterman. Having resided in several states prior to seventh grade, Steve’s family relocated to Austin, Minnesota, in 1987. He graduated from Austin High School in 1993 and attended the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay on a Division 1 scholarship for swimming. He later transferred to the University of Minnesota, graduating in 1998 with a bachelor of science degree in Management Information Systems. Steve carried a strong work ethic, and had a fierce, competitive nature.  After several years as a vice president of Fidelity Bank in Edina, Minnesota, Steve retired in 2016 due to his health.

Steve met his future bride, Emily (Koerner) in 2005, and they were united in marriage on Oct. 6, 2007, in Minneapolis.

He was devoted to his beautiful wife and their children, Desmond, 7 and Ayla, 6. As a family, they enjoyed family trips to Breezy Point, family holiday gatherings in Minnesota and Wisconsin, the Minnesota Zoo, neighborhood walks and the park, school activities and events, and attending the Minnesota United Soccer games. The family always enjoyed grilling out. The kids’ highlight of a summer day was meeting their dad for lunch in the city. Steve was able to coach Des’ Little League baseball team prior to physical disability, and in recent days before his passing, he was still coaching Des from the porch overlooking the backyard. He was continually encouraging their children in all aspects of their development and interests.

Steve and Emily enjoyed running in numerous 5K’s together, with their children cheering. Attending area concerts with friends was enjoyed, especially the Dave Matthews Band, performing in Wisconsin. He had an exemplary repertoire of vinyls. Steve and Emily enjoyed trying local breweries and visiting new restaurants which was always an exploration with a critique to follow. There were many fond memories of themed family camps in Austin at his parents’ home, with extended family.

Steve (aka Lawgs) will continue to be remembered as a loyal and strong, friend and colleague; a solid guy who had wonderful compassion for people and life, a sharp wit and a great laugh. With “Steve Spirit,” he carried close to his heart the relationships from middle school through high school, college, his family and professional life.

Steve and his family were extremely honored with the Lawgsfest benefit concert held in July 2017 in Austin. In January 2018, Steve was inducted into the Austin High School Sports Hall of Fame for which he felt so honored and humbled. The AHS swim team, AHS track and cross country and Minnesota Youth Soccer League were all components that fueled his competitive spirit. By nature, Steve was extremely competitive; however, he often remarked that the camaraderie and teamwork were the most meaningful components that carried him beyond his high school years. He was extremely proud of his team at Fidelity Bank as well.

Steve was also an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers; many people fondly remark that he didn’t have a choice. Having played soccer since first grade, Steve played with Minnesota Youth Soccer during high school summers and throughout his early adult life. He and his young family are staunch supporters of MNUFC, the Loons, the professional soccer team of Minnesota.

He is survived by his loving wife, Emily; and their children, Desmond and Ayla of Lakeville. Their dog, Oscar, was very loyal to Steve and he remains loyal to the family. Steve is further survived by his parents, Stan and Carolyn Logterman of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; his sister, Kelly, and brother-in-law, Sailin Benedum; niece, Ella; nephew, Riley of Sussex, Wisconsin; his grandmother, Jeanette Logterman of Delavan, Wisconsin; and many special aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Steve is also survived by his father-in-law and mother in-law, Lamont and Becky Koerner of Vadnais Heights, Minnesota; his brother-in-law and sister-in law, Tim and Ashley Koerner, and their son, Lewis.

Preceding him in death were Steve’s maternal grandparents; his paternal grandfather; and his infant niece, Hannah Benedum.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Michael Gleason and the Fairview Hospice Team of Burnsville, Minnesota. In addition, the family’s caregivers provided wonderful support for which the family is very thankful. The family further acknowledges with appreciation, the ALS Minnesota/North Dakota/South Dakota Chapter for their assistance.

Steve, in true “Steve Spirit,” gave us a gift: he taught us much about life with his steadfast courage, dignity, laughter and love for his dear family and many friends.

Family and friends may visit at from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8 at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 3930 Rahn Rd in Eagan, Minnesota. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. with Pastor Tom Jenkins officiating. A catered luncheon will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, a GoFundMe page for Logterman Kids Education and Learning, has been established by friends for Desmond and Ayla. The family will also be designating a portion of all funds raised to ALS research.

Steve’s family is deeply grateful for all the love, prayers and support given throughout this journey.