Stephen Carl Bischoff, 59, stepped into the loving presence of God on July 9th after enduring two years of treatment for lung and brain cancer.
Stephen was born April 1, 1950, the first of twin sons to Wilbert G. and Lillian (Cornelius) Bischoff. He grew up, the son of a second-generation German farmer and businesswoman and beautician mother in the gentler 1950's. He experienced both the openness of country life and the connectedness of neighborhood life in Green Bay. Between Black Creek and Bond Street he became a man of diverse abilities with an independent spirit that preferred to do things his way.
He graduated from Seymour High School in 1968 and entered UW-Stevens Point as a Pharmacy major. He later earned his Barber's license and was a Doctor of Motors. He was an intelligent and creative man driven by perfectionism. The fine detail of his work went into everything from restoring cars and Harleys to hanging a picture. Over his lifetime he worked as an auto mechanic, antique dealer and taught himself to repair vintage pocket watches and clocks.
On January 10th, 1970 he got on his Harley and began a 10 day solo journey from Black Creek to Los Angeles, heading south not only looking for warmth but for the meandering roads that would take him through the deserts and mesas of the Southwest. It was an experience that forever made motorcycle riding a part of his spiritual life, a connection to the Divine.
On June 18th, 2009 Stephen married Katie Kralovetz, his love and best friend of 20 years. Rev. Dr. Robert Laubenstein of First United Church of Christ, Green Bay performed the ceremony.
Stephen was a member of the Iroquois Nation, Oneida Tribe, Turtle Clan. His respect for and pride in his Indian heritage matured throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife, Katie, twin brother David, sister Karen, son Sam Grochowski and his fiance, Lisa Greely, grandson Connor Grochowski and his beloved dogs Billy and Max.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his dogs, dearest Jack and Toby.
He loved antiquing and collecting military items related to World War II and Vietnam and Native American artifacts, BBQ, mild summer days, fall fishing in Bemidji, Minnesota, a hot cup of coffee and studying history. He loved Jesus, through all the twists and turns of his life.
He tended to be a quiet and serious man but was always more concerned about other people more than himself. He sought peace as the greatest of blessings but found it often elusive. He had a style of personal expression that others admired.
He was generous, persevering, helpful, quite charming and so witty. He extended friendliness indiscriminately, respected his country and service and honored the bond of family.
He was cared about by many and loved more deeply than he could ever understand. Those who had eyes to see deeply, saw him as all he was and loved him unconditionally. We look to the day when we will feel his hand take ours as we step into our eternal joy. He will embrace us in loving reunion and walk with us to meet our Lord and join the family of God.
A time of visitation will be held from 4pm to 6pm at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street DePere. A memorial service will be held at 6pm. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.
We wish to thank Dr. Winkler, Dr. Gemer, Dr. Coleman, the nurses of Green Bay Oncology especially Stephanie and Nancy, Connie Worzala Cancer Care Coordinator, Oneida Health Center especially the Pharmacy staff and Karen Adams, our co-workers, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ who prayed for Stephen all these long months.