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FINKBEINER: Stephen of Crediton
Posted By Haskett Funeral Homes On October 9, 2025 @ 2:15 PM In Exeter,Obituary | 109 Comments

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Steve on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, in his home, surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 64.
Steve will be watching over the love of his life, his wife of 41 years, Theresa (nee Dietrich) and their children Megan (Wade), Justin, Dillon (Annikka), and Ashley. He is survived by his siblings, Ellis Stewart (Erlene), Judy Johnson (Barry), Rodger Finkbeiner (Charlene), and sister-in-law Darlene Finkbeiner. Fondly remembered by his in-laws, and his nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Allan (2008) and Irene (2018) and his brother Doug (2023).
Steve was a lifelong farmer whose love for the land was both his career and his greatest passion. Steve’s heart always belonged to his teenage sweetheart, Theresa. He loved the life they shared and adored her more than anything. He was a proud father, and his kids were his greatest source of pride. In his younger years, Steve enjoyed playing baseball, and later was always happy to catch a Blue Jays game on TV. In more recent years, Steve’s Sundays were dedicated to golf with his buddies, where they shared many laughs, the occasional beer, and friendly competition. Steve was so easygoing, he could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He faced life’s challenges with quiet strength and an unwavering kindness that touched everyone around him. Steve treasured his Mustang, and loved going for drives with Theresa, enjoying the simple pleasure of a smooth road and good company. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Though the fields may be quieter now, Steve’s legacy lives on in the land he loved, the family he cherished, and the many memories kept by everyone.
Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, 456 Main Street South, EXETER on Tuesday, October 14th from 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 PM, where Steve’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 15th at 11 AM. Cremation to follow with a private family interment, Crediton Cemetery
Stream the service live or at your convenience by visiting www.facebook.com/haskettfh
In memory of Steve, donations made to the Stratford General Hospital Foundation -Integrated Stroke Unit, or the South Huron Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated.
Theresa and family I am so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing My condolences to you Sending love and prayers for the family. Theresa , thinking of you in the coming days.
Oh Theresa, Megan, Justin, Dillon, Ashley and the entire Finkbeiner Family, my heart is breaking reading this. Stephan (always called him Stephan, just like Irene!) became like a brother to me over the almost 20 years I was with his parents. We shared so many laughs, coffee, and some tears over those years. He was simply the best husband, father, son, brother and friend anyone could possibly ask for. His great laugh and twinkling eyes will never be forgotten. You have my sincere sympathy, I know your pain will be unbearable. The words he left you with are so Stephan, always thinking of his family, not himself. Rest In Peace dear Stephan. ❤️
My deepest condolences to Dillon, Annikka and the entire Finkbeiner family. I had the pleasure of working with Annikka the last 3 years and her love for her father in law, Steve, was immeasurable. She was always proud to talk about Steve and his strength through any trial he may have faced. May he rest in peace.
Theresa, Megan, Wade, Dillon, Annikka, Ashley, Justin and the Finkbeiner families;
There are no words to express the heartfelt sympathy we feel for your family in the loss of Steve. We have shared so many memories throughout the years and every single one of them put a smile on my face. It was so nice seeing you guys at Mitchell and Amanda’s reception another added memory.
Theresa, you and Steve had that kind of love that many people aspire to. I knew it was true love way back when you would bicycle from Zurich to his house. You crazy woman!!
Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Cherish all those wonderful memories you guys have created.
The Broken Chain by Ron Tranmer
“We little knew that morning that
God was going to call your name.
In life, we loved you dearly,
in death, we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
but you did not go alone.
A part of us went with you,
the day God called you home.
You left us beautiful memories,
your love is still our guide,
and though we cannot see you,
you are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
and nothing seems the same,
but as God calls us one by one,
the chain will link again.”
Theresa, Megan, Justin, Dillon and Ashley
Our Deepest Sympathy on the loss of your beloved Steven and Dad.
Dave and Deb
Dillion and family, so sorry for the loss of your Dad! Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time 🕊️
To Annikka, Dillon, and all the Finkbeiner family, we’re so sorry for the loss of Steve. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sending love and hugs to you all. From Dave, Christie and all the staff at AMG Funeral Home.
Sincerest condolences during this sad time. I very rarely saw Steve without a smile. May your memories comfort you.
Theresa and family- yet another gone way too soon- my condolences and heartfelt sympathy for you and your family. ♥️
I dont have words adequate enough to express my feelings.
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Always.
Love, Patti & Jamie Hunt
Uncle Steve will be greatly missed. May your precious memories give you all comfort during this difficult time. He is now reunited with Grandma, Grandpa, Dad and Jeff and working together to watch over all of us.
Finkbeiner Family,
I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of a great man, Steve. He was not only someone I had the privilege to care for, but also someone I came to respect and appreciate deeply. His strength, kindness, and spirit left a lasting impression on everyone around him. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I will truly miss him
I’m so sorry for your sudden loss. Steve was a loving husband, father, and friend. Our heart is with you during this difficult time.
We are so saddened to learn of your loss. Steve had a personality that lifted the spirits of those around him. Our condolences to all of you.
Theresa and family,
We are so saddened to hear of Steve’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time!💕
I am soooo very sorry for your loss every one. He was a great man and loved you all so much. Hold the memories close to your hearts! He will forever be your guardian angel❤️
Theresa, Megan, Wade, Dillon, Annikka, Ashley and the Finkbeiner families – We are so very sorry to hear that Steve has lost his battle with cancer. Know that we are thinking of you all at this most difficult time. Find comfort in all of your wonderful memories and hold them close. RIP Steve. 💔
To families of Stephen Finkbeiner may you find comfort in the many memories at this time of loss.
I know, there are no words that can ease your pain. My heart goes out to you Dillon, Annikka and family for your loss. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this heartfelt time. I am deeply sorry for your loss. ❤️
Theresa, Megan, Justin
Ashley and Dillon
We are so saddened to hear about Steve
There are no words to truly express our condolences.
We are thinking of all of you at this sad time
So sorry for the family loss. He will be missed for sure. Our thoughts are with you guys at this time. Cherish the memories an be there for one another.
To the whole Finkbeiner family
We are so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. He was always very friendly when I saw him, and he was exceptionally proud of his four kids. No words we can say will adequately ease your sorrow, but we hope that happy memories, and the love of family, friends, and neighbours will help support you during this sad time. Our sincere condolences to you all
Deepest sympathies to Ashley & Family
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Bob & Sharon Erb
Theresa and Family
Deepest Sympathy for your loss.
Share the many memories you all have made throughout the years.
Rest in Peace, Steve
Lori Masse and Jim Nyssen
The Finkbeiner family,
You have my condolences on the loss of Steve. His spirit will live on through the lives of his children.
This is so sad to know of Steve passing , My condolences for both of Steve’s family
💐😢
Theresa and Family
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you
at this very sad time
So sorry for your loss
Justin –
I’m so sorry to read of your Dad’s passing. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Dillon, Annikka, and family —
May the comfort of your memories carry you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Though I only had the chance to meet Steve once, it was clear he was an exemplary family man and truly embodied the spirit of a farmer.
Dear Megan,
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Sonya Thompson
We are sincerely saddened for your loss with our deepest condolences to yourselves Theresa and all family.
Ashley, Theresa and family,
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your father/husband. Cherish the memories.
Jason and Collette Van Haarlem
Theresa and family
Our sympathy in the loss of your loved one
Joe and Diane Kaak
Dear Theresa, your Beautiful Children and extended Family.
It was with shock and sadness, that we heard the news today, of the passing of Steve.
Please know Theresa that you and your Kids, will be in our thoughts and prayers, as you go through these next days, weeks and future months.
Life is hard and Death comes too quickly… to good, hard working and close Families.
Take Comfort in knowing… He is at Peace and his Spirit will Guide you Safely, as Life goes on. 🙏🏻
Garry and Brenda Koehler
Theresa and family….. our sincere condolences are with you at this difficult time.
So sorry for your loss.
Sincere condolences to the family.
Great memories working alongside with Steve over the years.
He will be missed.
Theresa, Megan, Justin, Dillon, Ashley so very sorry for your loss, You have my deepest sympathy, I always enjoyed talking with Steve he always had that big smile and little chuckle, Steve taught me many little tricks when I worked for Doug and him many years ago that I still use to this day and will never forget who taught me, thinking of you all
Our condolences and deepest sympathies
He will be missed by so many
To Dillon, Annikka and all of the Finkbeiner family. We are so sad about the loss of Steve. Working with Annikka I felt I got to know Steve. I could tell what a brave and courageous man he was. Sending you hugs and love. Debbie and Derrick
Theresa and Family
I was saddened to hear the passing of Steve. My deepest sympathy to you all. You will be in my thoughts.
Cherish your memories❤️
Courtney &Family
I am truly sorry for your family’s loss. Our condolences ❤️
We are so saddened to see your family have lost Steve. Please know that we send hugs to all of you… We both have a lot of mems of you …Theresa / Steve . .. Life is not always fair. But hold tight to all the good times..
Our deepest sympathy to all the Finkbeiner family with the loss of Steve. He was a great guy with such strength. A farmer through and through. Gone too soon! May your wonderful memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Dear Theresa,Megan, Justin, Dillon, and Ashley and extended family and friends that were touched by the love and friendship of Stephen, Finky, Animal.
He roared into Zurich with his fast car and developed friendships with the Cobras where many a game and tournament were played and maybe a few pops …A great best friend to have in your corner.
Fly high our good friend…you made a huge impact. So many memories .
Dear Theresa and family,
So terribly sorry to learn of your beloved Steve’s passing! This will be a hard journey for all of you, especially Theresa, but we pray that with time you will find comfort. May your many happy memories sustain you and give you hope. Remembering you all in prayer, Sheila and Richard Macgregor
Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family, we are so sorry for your loss.
Jim & Linda Dietrich.
Condolences to the Finkbeiner Family,
RIP Steve
Theresa and Family, our deepest condolences to you all in the loss of your Husband and Father ❤️ May you find comfort in the beautiful life you shared, and your many fond memories of times spent together ❤️
Sending you all our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time
Finkbeiner Families,
Thinking of you at this difficult time
For each trial there is strength to carry on & for each parting there are wonderful memories when sorrow is gone.
Steve, a farmer – a keeper of our precious land may he have perfect weather all the time!
Our deepest condolences
Caroline Rasenberg & Tony Vanderhoek
Theresa, Dillon, Annikka and family. Sending our deepest condolences on your loss.
You are in our thoughts at this very sad time.
Mark, Judy and family.
Theresa & family, Rodger & Charlene, Ellis & Erlene & Judy & Barry & All of the Finkbeiner family
Reading about your loss of Stephen is truly sad. Difficult to put into words but know our thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time. Cherish your memories. Our Sympathy.
Margaret Brintnell & Brad Wright
So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He will be missed by many. Your memories will keep him close. Prayers for all of your family.
Sincere condolences to Theresa and family as well as the Finkbeiner and Dietrich families in the passing of Steve. I hard working man that was taken way too young. Cherish all your memories of happier times to help you through these difficult days. Steve will be greatly missed.
Howard and Yvonne Hendrick
Theresa and family,
Our hearts break for all of you. Sending you strength, love, and courage during these difficult days ahead and praying that in time your hearts will heal and only beautiful memories of your beloved Stephen remain. Rest in peace Steve, you were one in a million and will be so deeply missed.
Love Rita and Kevin
Theresa and family. Sending deepest sympathy at this difficult time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Keep all the good memories close to your heart and remember how much you are all loved by Steve . God will carry you through these heart breaking times.
Theresa & family, so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing..was a guy full of life and a kind word….just keep the wonderful memories with you..
Theresa and family and all of Steve’s extended family
Sincere sympathy in your huge loss. Always loved to chat with Steve. A good hard working man.
May God grant comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Love & Prayers
Justin, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Condolences to your family on the loss of Steve he will be fondly remembered.
To Steve’s family:
My condolences to all of you. Cherish all of your memories.
Joan Finkbeiner
Theresa Megan Dillion Justin Ashley I’m very sorry for your loss of Steve great father and grandfather thinking of you at sad time
I’m so sorry to hear of Steve’s loss. He was a wonderful man. You are all in our thoughts at this difficult time. May your happy memories , as well as the support of your family and friends, help to lessen the load.
Dear Theresa and the entire Finkbeiner family
We are deeply sorry for your loss. Please know our hearts and thoughts are with you during this sorrowful time. The beautiful memories you shared with Steve will never leave. Sending our most heartfelt sympathy.
Patti and Steve
To all the Finkbiner family and relatives, sorry to hear that Steve passed away. May all the good memories help you through this difficult time.
Annikka, Dillon, and all the Finkbeiner family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts, and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Paul Pavkeje & Colleen Kerslake
Sorry to hear of your loss …Thinking of all of you at this time …Arlene & John Berendsen
Theresa, Megan, Wade, Justin, Dillon, Annika, Ashley, the Finkbeiner family & the extended Dietrich families.
I was so sad to hear of Steve’s passing. My thought & prayers are with you during this difficult. Take comfort from all the people around you as you navigate the days & months ahead.
RIP Steve.
Sally Desjardine
Theresa and family. So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Sending you all big hugs as you remember and celebrate the wonderful life you shared together.
Our condolences to Theresa and the Finkbeiner family
Our deepest sympathy to Theresa & family. Steve was a wonderful person who will be missed by many
My deepest sympathy to Steve’s family
Deepest condolences to the entire family. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
May God bless u and surround yourself with his life, difficult time for yourself Theresa and children. Think of all the happy times you have had with Steve. Take care of each other.
To the Finkbeiner and Dietrich Families,
Our sincere condolences on Steve’s passing. We are thinking of you at this sad time.
Theresa and family my deepest condolences in the loss of your husband and father. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
I was so sad when I heard of Steve’s passing. Rest in peace Steve. My deepest condolences to the entire Finkbeiner family.
Theresa and family,
Our deepest condolences. Steve was a friend and neighbour and will be missed.
Liz and Don Millson
Theresa and Families:
Another one gone too soon!! Hugs to you all…
RIP Steve
I am very sorry to read this news. Way too young. Offer my deepest sympathy to the Finkbiner family. Was always a pleasure to just have a chat with Steve.
Dear: Theresa, Megan (Wade), Justin, Dillon (Annika), Ashley; the Finkbeiner & Dietrich Families / Friends . . .
We were so shocked and saddened to learn that Steve has lost his battle with cancer. He fought a tough journey dealing with each of his health challenges with incredible strength & courage. Steve’s obituary is a beautiful tribute to the wonderful & much-loved husband, father, brother, son-in-law, uncle, neighbour & friend, he will forever be remembered as. Please know that we care & share in your sadness, we have lost a Crediton neighbour far too young. Steve’s departure from your lives will leave an immeasurable void in your hearts but know he loved his family & friends unconditionally. His memory will forever live on, in the stories, pictures, laughter & love that you all shared as a family & may they heal your hearts & brings smiles through your tears. Rest in Peace Steve, you will be deeply missed.
❤️ “When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind.” ❤️
We offer our most heartfelt sympathies, sending prayers of healing, may your family find strength & peace in each other now – you are surrounded by the love of family & friends to help you through the difficult days of mourning & grief that lay ahead. God Bless You! 🙏🏻
Theresa and family
I’m so glad to have known Steve, you had a wonderful man Theresa! Keep all of the memories alive and speak of him often! So sorry for your loss! 🥰
Julie Johnston & Bryan Watson
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Please know that we are thinking of all of you during this difficult time and in the days ahead.
Lisa & Gerard Regier
To Steve’s family and friends.
Sorry to learn of his passing, way too soon.
Our condolences to all.
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing, thinking of you and your family
Theresa and family
My sincere sympathy to you.
Joanne
To Megan, and all the Finkbeiner family,
My sincere condolences for your loss. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Theresa and family.
Sorry for your loss, keeping you in our thoughts and prayers
Deepest sympathy
Cherish your memories
Sending my condolences to Steve’s loving family and friends. RIP.steve.
My condolences
Sorry for the loss of your husband and father. He seemed like a very warm and genuine person. Sincere condolences
Condolences to the entire Finkbeiner family. Thinking of you during this difficult time.
Thoughts and continued prayers to the Finkbeiner family. It has been a privilege to get to know each of you over the past few years. May the memories you cherish of Steve brighten your days ahead
My deepest sympathy in the loss of Steve! Cherish your memories to help you through the days ahead!
My deepest sympathy Theresa and Families, I am so sorry for your loss , that ache is something that remains in your hearts each day, but it will be the little things that will bring you a smile or a tear, that many years together is like losing a part of your self. ❤️
Theresa and Family
So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Thinking of you all at this very sad time.
One of the great men that Ive had the pleasure of knowing in my life, gone far too soon.
God bless Stephen and God bless the Finkbeiner families.
Sincere sympathy to the family.
Lynne Tolton; Newdale Mb ( cousin of Ellis on the Stewart side of the family).
Theresa, Megan & Wade, Justin, Dillon & Annikka, and Ashley
We are saddened to hear about the lose of Steve. Hold tight to the many great memories. He will be missed.
To the Finkbeiner Family,
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Steve, you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Joyce & Frank Maas
Theresa & Family, Finkbeiner & Dietrich families & Steve’s friends;
Our sincere condolences in the loss of Steve. I always enjoyed my interactions with Steve over the years. He was a hard worker and a true craftsman in everything he did. I had Steve refinish the woodwork on some family heirloom furniture years ago. All pieces were done to absolute perfection and remain that way today.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. R.I.P. Steve.
Mark & Julie Heimrich & Family & Marilyn Heimrich
My condolences to the Finkbeiner family
To Ashley, Justin, and the rest of the Finkbeiner family,
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of a beloved husband and amazing father. Thinking of you all and sending my condolences during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Ryan Maas
Theresa, Meagan, Justin, Dillon, Ashley and Family,
I was saddened to learn of Steve’s passing, definitely a great man gone way too soon. Lucky to have had him as a neighbour growing up, letting him help with the farm planting of our crops every year to doing crop share with my parents in the last few years. May you always think of his infectious laugh and be reminded of the great memories on the days that feel tough. Hugs to all of you
Our deepest condolences on the passing of Steve. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Ron O’Brien & family
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of Steve. He was a good man, always positive, he went out of his way to put you at ease (he did this naturally, with no effort because that’s who Steve was) and he loved to chat. I have many fond memories of Steve over the years. Steve was one of the first people I had the pleasure of knowing when I first worked in Huron County. He was always quick to strike up a conversation about anything – economics, politics, farming (of course), and most of all his family, who he truly loved and was extremely proud of. My condolences to Theresa and the kids. Take care and try to remember the fond memories, which I’m sure there are too many to count. Steve will be missed!
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Sincere Condolences to the Family.