OSAGE — Steven “Steve” Wade Abben, 69, of Osage, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Steve was born Oct. 1, 1956, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Duane and Mary Bower Abben. He began school in Riceville before his family moved to Marion and later returned to Osage, where he graduated from Osage High School in 1974.
Steve married Linda Gerbig on Oct. 26, 1974, and they became the parents of Jennifer, Jim and Jamie. They later divorced.
On April 21, 1990, Steve married Dell Schwab after meeting her the previous year. Their marriage brought together a blended family that included Peter, Kristy and Matthew.
According to his obituary, Steve was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved fishing, golfing and bowling. He made many trips to Lake of the Woods with family and friends and especially enjoyed teaching his grandchildren how to fish at Lake Hendricks.
Steve was also an accomplished bowler who recorded multiple perfect 300 games. On the golf course, he achieved two holes-in-one.
His obituary notes that Steve devoted 21 years to the Osage Fire Department. He became known for operating the pumper truck during fire calls and for his dependable service to the community.
After retiring from the fire department, Steve continued helping others as a bus driver for the Osage Community School District. He formed lasting connections with students and families and also volunteered as a coach for the Osage Trap Team.
Steve was active in his church and sang in the church choir.
Family was central to Steve’s life. He enjoyed attending the sporting events of his children and grandchildren and rarely missed an opportunity to support them.
He was also a loyal sports fan who followed the Iowa Hawkeyes, Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Vikings and Indiana Fever.
According to his obituary, Steve treasured time with loved ones and was always ready to share another memorable fishing story.
Steve is survived by his wife, Dell; six children; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters Cindy Abben, Tori Abben and Deb Reid; and many other relatives and friends.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 17, 2026, at the Osage Fire Department.
Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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