Steve Macheichok

Steve Macheichok, 73, of Rhinelander, passed away on July 26, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with liver cancer. Born on March 21, 1951, in Rhinelander, Steve grew up in the township of Pelican with his two siblings, enjoying countless days playing softball until dusk. As a young boy, Steve achieved the prestigious Eagle Scout award, a testament to his dedication and perseverance. The Macheichok Family took many trips to Canada camping, and fishing Canadian walleye. After fishing the family spent the rest of the evening water skiing till 10! At home the family also fished using cane poles at their Grandpa Oelrichs cottage. The Rustic Lodge in McNaughton was also a lifetime location for family and friends.

Steve graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1969, then moved on to study small engines at Nicolet Technical College, and began his career at Rhinelander Ford. Known for his adventurous spirit, he became an avid daredevil, engaging in off-road racing, stock car racing, and snowmobiling. His passion for racing was matched only by his talent for rebuilding and customizing vehicles.

Steve’s journey took him to New Castle, Wyoming, where he worked as a service manager for a Chevrolet dealership. It was in Wyoming that Steve found his true calling in firefighting, and firefighter training. Over the years, he held several key positions, including: County Fire Chief for Weston County, Fire Captain for the City of New Castle, creator of a chainsaw mount program for the State of Wyoming, and volunteer firefighter for 28 years.

Steve also worked for the Wyoming State Forestry Division, supervising work crews in forestry management and wildfire suppression. He trained many in Basic Firefighting, Introduction to Willman Fire Behavior, and Human Factors on the Fire Line. His crew's efforts contributed to the suppression of 82 wildland and prescribed fires. Steve held numerous accreditations, including Federal Incident Commander, Engine Boss, Squad Boss, and Crew Boss.

After retiring from the Wyoming State Forestry Division, Steve returned to Rhinelander, where he continued to share his expertise in mechanics, volunteering in various community groups. He served as vice president of the Hodag 4 Wheelers ATV/UTV Club12, Nicolet Technical Institute as a Small Engines Advisory board member, and a service manager for Heritage Chevrolet.

Steve and his beloved wife, Rose, spent many winters in Bullhead City, Arizona, where he enjoyed target shooting, and had a passion for UTV trail rides in the desert where they uncovered many historic ruins. Steve was also the coordinator and cook for events at the resort.

He cherished sharing his mechanical skills and love of fishing, snowmobiling, riding motorcycles and UTVs with his son, Scott.

Steve will be remembered for his dedication, adventurous spirit, and unwavering commitment to helping others. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his service and passion for life.

Steve is survived by his wife Rose, daughter Heather (James) Stein, son Scott (Naomi) Macheichok, siblings Sandy Stein and Stan (Pat) Macheichok, grandchildren Nic and Melanie Macheichok, Kaitlyn Swiller and Sawyer Stein.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Bea Macheichok and brother-in-law, Donald Stein.

On behalf the family of Steve, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for the exceptional care and compassion of Aspires Hospice staff you provided during his final days. Your dedication and support were invaluable during this difficult time.

In lieu of gifts and flowers please donate to the causes he dedicated to life to serve. Hodag 4 Wheelers ATV/UTV Club, Newbold Fire Department.

A Celebration of Life for Steve will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at the Carlson Funeral Home from 10 a.m. to noon. You may leave your private condolences for the Macheichok family at wow.carlson.com. 

The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is handling the arrangements for the family.