HAMPTON — Steven Bruce “Steve” Harkema, 74, of Hampton, a devoted husband, father and grandfather whose life was filled with family adventures, hard work and a love of Iowa sports, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026. From his years behind the wheel of a semi to memorable family vacations and countless afternoons cheering on his grandchildren, Steve built a lifetime of memories with those he loved.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 28, at 4 p.m. at Woodley Funeral Home, 306 Central Avenue East in Hampton. Visitation will follow the service from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Steve was born May 11, 1952, at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital, the son of Henry and Vila Harkema. He was baptized at Alden Methodist Church and attended school in Alden, Buckeye and Popejoy.
On November 26, 1972, Steve married Pamela Muessigmann at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Iowa Falls, beginning a marriage that would span more than five decades.
Together, Steve and Pam raised two sons, Craig and Chad, and built a family life filled with shared experiences, travel and lasting traditions.
Steve spent much of his working career in jobs that kept him busy and on the move. Most recently, he worked for Ag State of Ellsworth, driving a semi and delivering feed to agricultural operations.
His earlier employment included positions with John Deere, Schwan’s sales and several other trucking jobs.
Although he devoted many years to his work, Steve knew how to enjoy his time away from the job.
He was an enthusiastic fan of camping, cooking, bowling and golf. He also enjoyed tractor pulls, drag racing and car shows, where his enthusiasm and participation earned him an impressive collection of trophies.
His interest in automobiles and motorsports was only one part of a life filled with hobbies and activities.
Steve especially treasured attending his sons’ and grandchildren’s athletic events. Watching them compete and supporting their accomplishments brought him tremendous satisfaction.
A loyal Iowa Hawkeyes fan, Steve enjoyed following the university’s athletic teams. He also cheered for the Indiana Fever women’s basketball team.
Some of his family’s favorite memories were created during travels and special occasions.
Among those adventures was a trip to Texas to attend the Alamo Bowl with his sons, combining his love of football with an opportunity to spend time together.
Another memorable experience was an Amtrak journey to California, a chance to see the country and enjoy the adventure of traveling by rail.
One of the most meaningful milestones in Steve’s life came when he and Pam celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, honoring five decades of marriage and the family they had built together.
Through the years, Steve’s greatest joys remained close to home: his wife, children and grandchildren, and the opportunities to gather together, share experiences and make new memories.
Steve is survived by his wife, Pamela Harkema of Hampton; sons Craig (Heather) Harkema of Hampton and Chad (Jamie) Harkema of Mason City; and grandchildren Alexis (Dalton) Forry of Marble Rock, and Easton, Oakley and Hudson of Mason City.
He is also survived by nephews David Thies, Dennis Schreuer and Donald Harkema; and nieces Lisa Harkema, Susan Gordon and Lynn Hannah.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Vila Harkema; siblings Beverly (Harkema) Thies, LaDonna (Harkema) Hannah, Wilma (Harkema) Schreuer and Harold Harkema; and nephews Michael Thies and Bruce Hannah.
His family and friends will remember the many experiences they shared with him, from family celebrations and sporting events to vacations, hobbies and the everyday moments that made his life meaningful.
Family and friends may share memories, offer condolences and find additional service information through Woodley Funeral Home’s online tribute to Steven Harkema.
NorthIowaToday.com publishes obituaries and remembrances for families and funeral homes free of charge.