Steven M. “Huffy” Eilbes, 68, of Mayville, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct.19, 2026, at his hunting property near Neillsville. He was supported by his hunting partners.
Steven was born on May 27, 1958, in Beaver Dam to Melvin and Donna (Henke) Eilbes. He grew up in the Village of Kekoskee. He graduated from Mayville High School in the bicentennial year of 1976. Steve was married to Diane Manthey on August 25, 1979, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Mayville, where he is a current member.
After high school, Steve started his career incorporating his love of the outdoors at Waas Boring & Cable. He completed his years of employment serving the citizens of the City of Mayville in the DPW for 27 years. He retired in 2023, but continued to assist the City when needed. Finally retiring fully after the tornado in 2025.
Steve loved being outside enjoying nature and God’s scenic beauty. Fall was what he looked most forward to, especially enjoying bow hunting, gun hunting, trips to his land and time spent with family and close hunting friends. His favorite natural area to enjoy was in the U.P. He also loved fishing, including trips to Lake Erie, ice fishing, including his first sturgeon experience coming up in February, riding his ATV, and his boat. Together we enjoyed camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and many road trips with a stop for ice cream or at a favorite restaurant. Many discussions at family gatherings involved memories of grandma’s backroad car trips. Traveling was also a passion, including our most memorable trip to Hawaii to celebrate our 45th wedding anniversary. We have also enjoyed the scenic wonder of Alaska and the Canadian Niagara Falls. Lastly, the first trip to attend a Packer Game at Lambeau Field in December of 2025. He was an avid Packer and Brewer fan, enjoying the playoffs, and also a WI Badger fan.
Steve also loved history, especially relating to World War II. He enjoyed watching John Wayne movies and watching TV. Some of his favorite music was country and classic rock. He loved music from Kenny Rogers and the sounds of the saxophone from Kenny Gee. His favorite songs included White Horse from Chris Stapleton and Turn the Page from Bob Seger. Steve was loving and supportive of his grandchildren by attending various sporting events, concerts, plays and show choir events. He loved helping his grandson at the Dodge County Antique Power Club.
Steven is survived by his loving family, wife, Diane and children, Matthew (Krystle) Eilbes and Rebecca (John) Beilke. He was known as “Bumpa” to his beloved grandchildren, Hunter (Heidi Knuth) and Parker (Aleah Roehl) Eilbes, and Nolan and Lillian Beilke. He is also survived by siblings, Sharon (Eric) Walk and Duane “Red” (Shelley) Eilbes; niece, Renee Walk; nephew, Jonathon Walk; and great-nephew, Roman, along with other relatives and close friends.
Preceding Steven in death were his parents; brother, Daniel; infant siblings, Joseph and Mary; niece, Katherine; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Lloyd and Margaret Manthey; and best friend, Thomas Kohn.
Per Steve’s wishes, there will be a private family Inurnment Service conducted.
Steve was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His strengths, loving support, caring and many talents will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
The Koepsell Funeral Home in Mayville is caring for the family www.Koepsellfh.com
