Steve Weber, a beloved husband, father, Pappy, and dedicated public servant, passed away on July 9, 2024 in his hometown of Defiance, Ohio. He was born on November 29, 1968, to loving parents who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion.
Steve’s legacy is marked by selflessness and unwavering dedication to others. For over two decades, he served as a firefighter and paramedic with South Richland Fire Department, Defiance Fire Department, Ayersville Fire Department, and Noble Fire Department with courage and commitment that earned him the respect and admiration of all who knew him. His bravery knew no bounds as he fearlessly rushed into danger to save lives without hesitation or reservation. Steve worked for Burk Excavating hauling asphalt, which he loved.
Beyond his professional life, Steve found solace in nature while pursuing his passion for bass fishing. He fished with Williams County Anglers for many years, then helped lead a new club, Old School Bass Anglers, with his lifelong friend. The tranquility of the water brought him peace amidst life’s chaos, even though he had a habit of “snagging” more trees than bass. Additionally, he reveled in the freedom of riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle through winding roads under open skies, feeling alive with every twist of the throttle.
However, Steve’s greatest joy came from being surrounded by family. He cherished every moment spent with his wife, Jessie Weber; their love was an example for all who witnessed it. As a bonus dad to Alyssa (Daniel) McClure from Loudonville, Ohio, and Brittney Kelm from Defiance, Steve embraced them as if they were his own flesh and blood. His heart swelled with pride at the arrival of grandbabies Max and Drexel McClure; they were truly the light of his life.
In addition to these personal details about Steve’s passions are numerous anecdotes shared by friends recounting how deeply loved he was within their community. He was ready with a smile or helping hand whenever needed.
The loss felt at Steve’s passing is immeasurable, but so too is the impact he had on those around him during his time here on Earth.
His memory will live on through those whose lives he touched so profoundly. He will be forever remembered for embodying strength tempered by kindness, courage softened by compassion, and duty balanced with love.
May we find comfort knowing that although gone from our sight, he will never be absent from our hearts. Your legacy endures eternally.
I saw the potential in Steve Weber, when he applied as a paid on call firefighter. He was a one of a kind. Our fire department needed small skinny firefighters to do confined space extinguishment and overhaul. We formed the Attic Rats and Steve was Rat 2. He wore that honor with distinction. He went on to become a full-time firefighter paramedic with another department, but we always stayed in touch… Miss you brother!
– Edward BohnSteve was one of a kind, truly one of the good ones. You are missed by many.
– Rick SchmittI got to know Steve thru camping. He was always upbeat and positive about life. I remember him being so excited about making it thru the training for becoming a paramedic. He was proud to serve as a firefighter thru the years . Always led a helping hand to anyone in need. I’m not sure if Steve every knew a stranger. It seem like he was friends with everyone he met. I feel blessed to know him and his amazing family.
– Betsy ZellersThe only one who had the same sense of humor as me. Miss your jokes and telling me to leave when he didn’t appreciate them.
– Tom Rath