Family, friends, and colleagues across Wisconsin are mourning the tragic loss of Steven Scott Janke, who passed away in a car accident on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the age of 48. A proud Marine Corps veteran, dairy farmer, public servant, and champion for military-connected families, Steve leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to others.
Born on August 1, 1977, to Alyson and Terry Janke of rural Westfield, Steve was deeply rooted in his Wisconsin upbringing. A 1995 graduate of Westfield High School, he excelled in athletics, participating in football, basketball, and baseball. His commitment to service began early when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1996, serving until 1999 with assignments in Hawaii and Okinawa.
After completing his military service, Steve returned home to continue his family’s agricultural tradition as a dairy farmer. Yet his passion for serving others remained central to his life. Over the years, he contributed to his community through positions on the Westfield Area School Board and the CESA 5 Board of Control, while also working in various public affairs and legislative roles.
In 2017, Steve joined the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, where he became a driving force behind initiatives designed to support transitioning service members and their families. His work helped establish Mission Wisconsin, a statewide effort aimed at connecting military families with opportunities throughout the state. Recognizing the growing need for these services, Steve later expanded the initiative nationally through Semper Forward, helping thousands of veterans successfully navigate civilian life and career transitions.
Steve’s impact reached far beyond Wisconsin. Through his leadership and vision, he assisted hundreds of military families in relocating and building new lives while advising organizations and states on veteran workforce development strategies. His dedication earned widespread respect among veterans, employers, and community leaders alike.
Above all, Steve was a devoted father to his two children, Ashton and Emma, who were the center of his life and greatest source of pride. He is also survived by his parents, Alyson and Terry Janke; his siblings, Tim Janke and Margaret Erdman; his nephews; extended family members; and many lifelong friends.
As loved ones gather to celebrate his life, they remember a man whose story was, as he often said, one of “soil and roots”—grounded in family, service, and a steadfast commitment to helping others succeed.
Steve Janke’s legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, the veterans he helped, and the communities he served. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
May he rest in peace.