Charles "Buzz" Richard Steffes

Charles "Buzz" Richard Steffes, 80, of Long Lake Township, Traverse City, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, with family by his side. Buzz was born on January 20, 1944, in Detroit to Glenn and Audrey Steffes. From a young age, he had a deep love for nature, a passion for physical activity, and enjoyed long walks. Buzz was known for his boundless energy, optimistic spirit, and his determination to always have a goal in sight. A man of faith, Buzz was selfless and consistently put others before himself. He met the love of his life, Suzanne, while working as the Program Director at the Boys and Girls Club summer camp on Harsens Island, MI. The moment their eyes met—it was love at first sight. They were married on June 17, 1966, at St. Rita Catholic Church in Detroit. Buzz and Suzanne celebrated 58 years of marriage and shared a beautiful 62-year relationship. Throughout his career as a social worker with the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern MI, Buzz touched countless lives with his heart of gold and his endless patience. He always made sure those around him were well cared for. Together with Suzanne, Buzz loved to travel, enjoying cruises and many adventures. A highlight of his career came when he had the unique opportunity to meet two U.S. Presidents. He and the Outstanding Regional Member of the Boys and Girls Club of SE MI were invited to tour the White House, where Buzz had the privilege of meeting President Ronald Reagan and President George H.W. Bush. After leaving the Boys & Girls Club after 35 years, he decided to go back to teaching where he ended up as a PE teacher at Livonia Public Schools. While teaching he went to U of M to get his Masters in Administration and later became the Assistant Principal at Franklin High School. Buzz was a devoted fan of Michigan sports, particularly cheering on his beloved University of Michigan teams. After leaving Livonia and moving to Oscoda, Northport, and finally Traverse City, Buzz and Suzanne became proud parishioners of St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, where Buzz served as a lector for the 4:00 PM Saturday Masses. Buzz had a love for Broadway show tunes, and though he didn’t know all the words, he always had fun singing his “version” and enjoying the music. Buzz is survived by his wife Suzanne, son Jeffrey and wife Barbara and grandchildren Kellen, Morgan and Caden, his daughter Jane and husband David, his brother Dr. James Steffes and countless cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Audie Mae, brother Glenn Steffes, stepmother Janet, and stepbrother George Mooney. A Funeral Mass will be held for Buzz on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, Michigan. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the funeral at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or Room in the Inn—shelter and safe place (former BGCSM worker now Pastor in Tennessee, Jeff Kane) Please share your cherished memories of Buzz with his family at www.Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com

Charles "Buzz" Richard Steffes

January 20, 1944 - September 28, 2024