In Loving Memory of Steven Robert Nesbit

May 13, 1961 – April 17, 2025

With deep love and heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Steven Robert Nesbit — a devoted husband, proud father, cherished "Boppa," veteran, and true friend to all. Steve passed away on April 17, 2025, at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and meaningful relationships.

Born on May 13, 1961, in Minneapolis, MN, Steve was raised in Owatonna and graduated from Owatonna High School in 1980. He was the son of Robert and Beverly Nesbit. A true patriot, Steve loved his country and served with honor in the Army National Guard from 1980 to 1986, completing basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia. In 1986, he began his career with Pepsi, dedicating 30 years as a Product Merchandiser. He later worked as a Federal Armed Security Officer with the FAA and also served as an ER Security Officer at Fairview Ridges — roles that allowed him to do what he loved most: connect with people.

On May 2, 1981, Steve married the love of his life, Bonnie Nesbit. Together, they shared 43 incredible years filled with love, laughter, family, and countless memories. Their life was full of adventure — from Caribbean cruises to exploring Japan, enjoying golf cart rides, and trying new restaurants wherever they went. They loved to take walks and talk about life, always making space for conversation, connection, and time together. Whether it was the way Steve affectionately called her "Mrs. Nesbit" or how he never missed a chance to take their beloved dogs along on their strolls, their life together was rich with everyday joy and unwavering love.

In 2023, Steve and Bonnie moved to Florida, a place he had always dreamed of calling home. He quickly embraced the sunshine and laid-back lifestyle, and nothing made him happier than welcoming friends and family who came to visit from out of state. Steve loved playing tour guide — showing off his favorite local spots, soaking up the sun, and making sure every guest felt at home. He especially enjoyed calling back to Minnesota to brag about the Florida weather while everyone back home was bundling up in the cold.

Steve worked as a Federal Security Officer for Homeland Security at the Immigration Office in Fort Myers, where he continued his dedicated service, building lasting connections with coworkers and those around him until his passing. He truly loved to work — not just for the job itself, but for the relationships it allowed him to build. We often joked he would never retire because he enjoyed people too much.

Faith was a cornerstone of Steve's life. He found strength and purpose through his relationship with God, and he especially loved Praise & Worship music — often playing his favorite songs and letting the lyrics fill his heart. He cherished attending church and was always moved by a meaningful message. His faith was steady and sincere — not something he just believed, but something he lived and openly shared with those around him.

Steve had a wide range of hobbies and interests. He was an avid gun, coin, and watch collector and encouraged others to join him in his passions. Though marksmanship was part of his work, he was exceptionally skilled — with certified abilities that brought him quiet pride. And somehow, Steve was always lucky — if there was a raffle, you could count on him to win. He once even won a free cruise!

He was a proud father to Alissa (Ryan) Saverine, Katie (Andrew) Scheffler, and Alex Nesbit, and the adoring "Boppa" to his five grandchildren: Reegan, Easton, Brynnley, Maverick, and Howard. His family was the center of his world, and he captured that love through the lens of his ever-present camera — a gifted photographer whose photos told stories, froze time, and reflected his deep affection for those he held close.

Steve is preceded in death by his daughter Sheila and his father Robert Nesbit. He is survived by his loving wife Bonnie; his children and their spouses; his grandchildren; his mother, Beverly Nesbit; his sister, Sue Mower; numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law;  many nieces and nephews; cousins; and countless friends — including a cherished new community in Florida.

Guests are invited to gather beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Michaelson Funeral Home, 1930 Austin Road, Owatonna, MN 55060, for a time of connection and remembrance during a Celebration of Life. A Remembrance Service honoring Steve's life will begin at 12:30 p.m.

If you knew Steve, you knew his heart. He would want you to take the picture. Go on the vacation. Laugh out loud. Tell people you love them and that you're proud of them. If you feel it — say it. Share it. Love like he did.