Steve Brezenski, aged 81, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, in North Platte, Nebraska, surrounded by his family and close friends. Born on August 21, 1944, Steve lived a life full of work, laughter and family.

A proud veteran, Steve served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps, which included a memorable deployment to Cuba. Upon returning to civilian life, Steve pursued a degree in biology and spent nearly four decades as a fisheries biologist for Nebraska Game and Parks, working tirelessly to protect and cultivate the waters and wildlife of the state he loved.

Steve had a profound affinity for the great outdoors. He loved to fish, camp, garden and bird watch. But above all, Steve’s greatest legacy was his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gail McKenzie. Together, they raised a beautiful family of 10 children, who in turn blessed them with 34 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Steve’s home was always full of life, motion, and music.

To know Steve was to know laughter. He famously possessed a joke for every single occasion—whether entirely appropriate or not—and took great joy in bringing a smile (or a playful groan) to the faces of everyone in the room. His humor was his trademark, a gift he used to lighten burdens and bring people together, even in his final days.

He leaves behind a vast network of family, friends, and former colleagues who will forever cherish his stories, his wisdom, and his jokes. His impact on Nebraska’s wilderness and on the hearts of his family will endure for generations.

In accordance with his wishes, a private family service will be held. Steve will be laid to rest with military honors at Fort McPherson National Cemetery, where he will be buried alongside his wife, Gail, reunited in eternal peace.