Steve C Wehrbein

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Stephen Craig Wehrbein (Steve), a lifelong resident of Cass County, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born January 25, 1945 to Ralph and Vivian (Johns) Wehrbein, Steve grew up attending the one-room Bester School, District 42, often riding his Welsh ponies, Fawn or Flash, to class. He graduated from Plattsmouth High School in 1963 and went on to study Dairy Production Management at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Steve farmed alongside his brothers Roger, Dan, and Ted, where together they established Breeze Valley Farms. In 2003, he joined his sons Chad and Cory in their landscaping business, Greenlife Gardens, in Sarpy County. He also served his country for six years as a member of the Army Reserves.

Faith was a cornerstone of Steve’s life. A lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church in Plattsmouth, he faithfully served as an elder, deacon, and decades-long member of the choir. He was also a proud Master Mason.

Steve’s dedication to community service was unmatched. He held leadership roles in countless organizations, including Chair of the Cass County 4-H Council, Director on the Nebraska DHIA Board, President of the Nebraska State Dairyman’s Association, President of the Korn Klub, Chair of the Cass County Extension Board, Cass County Fair Manager for 16 years, and State Fair Board Member since 2015, where he most recently chaired the Events Committee. He also served with the 1868 Foundation beginning in 2024.

His service was widely recognized with many awards, including the Harvest Festival Founders Award in 1987 and Citizen of the Year in 2022 from the Plattsmouth Community Foundation. As a dedicated Lion, Steve received numerous honors such as the Melvin Jones Fellow, International President’s Certificate of Appreciation, and the International President’s Leadership Award. He represented Nebraska at Lions International Conventions in Australia and Hong Kong, served as a Discussion Leader at the USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forum, and held leadership roles with the Nebraska Eye Bank, where he worked tirelessly to promote sight and hearing health initiatives. Locally, he coordinated the Plattsmouth Mobile Screening Unit for the Lions Club and contributed to the Historic Downtown Plattsmouth Association, serving as President for two years.

In addition to his community involvement, Steve gave generously of himself through blood and platelet donations. Since 1989, he donated a total of 400 pints—equivalent to 50 gallons—averaging more than 11 donations per year for 36 years. His quiet but steady commitment provided life-saving help for countless individuals.

Above all his accomplishments, Steve treasured his family most. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Marlene; his sons Chad (Becky) and Cory (Teri); his cherished grandchildren Jude, Sage, Mila, and Micah; his brothers Roger, Dan, Ted (Carol) Wehrbein, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Vivian Wehrbein along with sisters-in-law, Jeanene Wehrbein and Marlys Wehrbein.

Steve found great joy in watching his grandchildren grow into young adults and took immense pride in all that they accomplished. He delighted in getting farm animals for them to enjoy and loved sharing those moments together. Known for his friendly nature, Steve also loved chatting with everyone he met, making lasting connections wherever he went.

Steve’s life was defined by faith, family, service, and community. He will be remembered for his dedication to agriculture, his leadership in civic life, his deep commitment to helping others, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 3:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church in Plattsmouth, Nebraska with Rev. Matt Coplen officiating.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM with family greeting friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church.

Memorials in Steve’s memory may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church, Nebraska State Fair or the Plattsmouth Lion’s Club.

Arrangements are under the direction of Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home, Plattsmouth, Nebraska  402-296-4445