Pierce James Dean Steffen

In Loving Memory of Pierce James Dean Steffen

With hearts full of sorrow, we announce the passing of Pierce James Dean Steffen, age 25, of Rothschild, Wisconsin, who left this world on Friday, July 24, 2026.

Pierce was born on September 18, 2000, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Thomas Steffen and Nicole Lotzer. On February 21, 2025, he married the love of his life, Adriana Palacios, in Wausau. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, hope, and dreams for the future.

Pierce proudly served his country in the United States Army, living each day with courage, dedication, and honor. He will be remembered not only for his service, but for his kind heart, generous spirit, infectious smile, and the way he made everyone around him feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing, playing video games, working on cars, bowling, and volunteering with Adaptive Community. One of the greatest blessings in his life was Boomer, the dog he and Adriana rescued together. From the moment Boomer became part of their family, Pierce shared an extraordinary bond with him. Whether they were relaxing at home, playing together, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Boomer was always by Pierce’s side. Their bond reflected the kindness, compassion, and unconditional love that defined who Pierce was. The love they shared will forever remain a treasured memory.

Pierce is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Adriana Palacios, of Rothschild; his parents, Thomas (Michelle) Steffen of Wausau and Nicole Lotzer of Rothschild; his siblings, Paige (Phoenix) Manderfield of Eland, Payton Steffen of Rothschild, and Prentis (Izzy) Steffen of Fort Riley, Kansas; his beloved nieces, Elleri and Emeriella Manderfield; his paternal grandparents, August and Janet Steffen; his stepbrothers, Tyler Ek of Wittenberg and Justin Ek of Merrill; his stepsister, Alexis Moser of Merrill; his stepniece, Lily; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Dean and Joan Lotzer, and by two cherished friends, Sean Brown and Kaign Reifschneider, who welcomed him into eternal peace.

Though Pierce’s passing leaves an unimaginable void, the love he shared and the lives he touched will never fade. His legacy lives on in every memory, every story, every laugh, and every heart that was blessed to know him. He taught those around him the value of loyalty, compassion, and loving without hesitation.

His love lives on not only in the hearts of his family and friends, but also in the loyal eyes of Boomer, who will forever miss his best friend.

Private family services will be held at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 6th Street, Wausau. Vistation starting at 1pm. Service at 3pm.

Family and friends are warmly invited to join in a Celebration of Life at Sixth Street Filling Station, beginning at 3:30 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026.

“Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in every memory, every smile, and every beat of our hearts.”

Rest in peace, Pierce. Your service, your kindness, your laughter, and your love will remain with us always. You will forever be loved, forever remembered, and never forgotten.