Steven Erhardt Wordell, age 66, of Brillion. God saw he was getting tired and took his hand and lead him to his heavenly home on June 9, 2026.

Steve was born to Audrey and the late Erhardt Wordell, on June 26, 1959 in Green Bay. He attended Trinity Lutheran School in Brillion, then went on to Brillion High School and graduated in 1977.

Steve’s faith journey began at a young age and remained a foundation throughout his life. His confirmation verse, Matthew 21:22, reflected the courage and strength he carried through every season of life: “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer". Steve continued growing his faith while being a devoted member to Trinity Lutheran Church. Family and friends find comfort in knowing that the faith that guided Steve throughout his life now carries him home to eternal peace.

On May 12, 1984, Steve married the love of his life, Janelle Behnke. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Abbey, Kyle and Robert. Steve was incredibly proud of his children and the lives they built for themselves.

Steve worked for Ariens and most recently Neenah Papers until his retirement. He dedicated many years through his strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment.

Outside of work, Steve enjoyed spending time with family and friends and could often be found doing the things he loved most. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and attending races. Whether he was outdoors, gathered around with family, or sharing stories and laughter with friends, Steve appreciated life’s simple moments and the people who made them special.

One of Steve’s greatest joys in life was being a grandfather. He adored his six grandchildren: Elleson, Halleigh, Kori, Brinley, Karter, and Braxton. Whether it was attending their activities, sharing stories, making jokes, teaching life lessons, or simply spending time together, Steve treasured every moment he had with them. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and the love he had for them was evident in everything he did.

Steve is survived by his wife of 42 years, Janelle Wordell. Their children: daughter Abbey (Andy) Gipp, two sons: Kyle (Kayla) Wordell and Robert (Gina) Wordell. His six grandchildren: Elleson, Halleigh, Kori, Brinley, Karter, and Braxton.

He is further survived by his mother, Audrey Wordell; sisters and brothers-in-law, Sue (Russ) Cherney and Sandy (Rich) McWilliams; mother-in-law: Bernice Behnke; six brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Jim (Dori) Behnke, Jerry (Joyce) Behnke, John (Barb) Behnke, Joe (Wendy) Behnke, Jeff (Kerry) Behnke, and Judy (Jerry) Behnke; three Godchildren: Stephen Behnke, Craig Behnke, and Amanda Schroeder; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Steve is preceded in death by his father: Erhardt Wordell, and father-in-law: Lester Behnke; and other relatives.

Steve will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, caring son, brother, uncle, and friend. He touched countless lives through his kindness, loyalty, generosity, and sense of humor. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and loved, and his presence brought comfort and joy to those around him.

Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church, Brillion. Officiating at the Service will be the Rev. Ross Henzi and the Rev. Nathan Moldenhauer with burial in Trinity Ev Lutheran Church Cemetery.

The family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m.

Online condolences may be made at www.pielhop.com In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established in Steve’s name.

The family has chosen Pielhop Funeral Homes & Cremation Care Centers to honor Steve’s legacy of life.

The family would like to thank Joe Behnke for the care, compassion, and support shown to Steve and his loved ones during this difficult time. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to St. Paul’s Home, Rev. Ross Henzi, and Rev. Nathan Moldenhauer for their care and compassion not only to Steve, but to us as well.