Stefanie M. Blackbird

Stefanie "Steffi" Blackbird (Simka)'s Story

 Stefanie "Steffi" Blackbird (née Simka), born on April 6, 1928, in Pless, Silesia, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, in Grafton, Wisconsin, at the age of 96. Steffi’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and creativity.

 After moving to Celle, Germany, Steffi worked as a phone operator for the U.S. Military Union, connecting calls for soldiers. It was there she met Robert “Bob” Blackbird, with whom she shared a deep and enduring bond. The couple married on September 1, 1951, and began their life together in the United States. They settled in Oneida, Wisconsin, where Steffi devoted herself to raising their family and contributing to her community. As a mother, Steffi was extremely devoted to her children of whom she loved dearly and was extremely proud.

 A dedicated member of St. John the Baptist Church, Steffi found joy and strength in her faith. She volunteered at St. John the Baptist School for many years, teaching art and decorating for school events. She also served as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts. An avid Green Bay Packers fan, Steffi rarely missed a game and loved discussing stats and strategy.

 A gifted artist with a passion for painting, Steffi’s work often reflected her love of water, ships, and lighthouses. Her artistry brought beauty and inspiration to those around her. She also enjoyed puzzles of all kinds—word finds, sudoku, and jigsaw puzzles—and cherished the company of those who joined her at the puzzle table.

 Steffi is survived by her brother Edi Simka and his daughters in Germany; her children: Callen Blackbird, Tegan Blackbird (Karen), and Halien Besaw (Michael); her grandchildren: Ethan Blackbird (Lauren), Jordan Landis (Caleb), Logan Besaw (Paulina), Erin Megenity (Charlie), and Molly Schulz (AJ); and her great-grandchildren: Elwood and August Megenity and Caylie, Isaac, and Lydia Landis, as well as Arthur. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob.

  A Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, December 26, 2024, 6:00 PM at the Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory (W63 N527 Hanover Ave.), Cedarburg. The visitation will take place on Thursday, at the funeral home, from 4:00 PM until the time of service. Entombment will take place at Allouez Catholic Cemetery, in Green Bay, where she will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Bob, on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 12:00 PM.   

 Steffi’s legacy lives on through her family and the countless lives she touched with her kindness and artistry. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

 Memorial donations can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Scenic Shore 150 Bike Ride where her children, Haly (Mike) and Tegan, have rode and raised money in her honor.