Steven Mark Bleiler, 78, of White Cloud, Michigan, passed peacefully at home on July 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Steve was born on June 24, 1948, in Fremont, Michigan, to Everett and Joan (Putz) Bleiler. He was raised in White Cloud, where he learned the values of faith, hard work, service, and family that would guide him throughout his life. Steve graduated from White Cloud High School in 1966 and went on to attend Ferris State University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education in 1970. He later completed a Master's Degree in Secondary Education from Central Michigan University.

On June 14, 1969, Steve married his better half, Mary Fowler. They shared a devoted marriage filled with faith, family, friendship, and countless cherished memories. Together they had 4 children, 8 grandchildren and one great grandson. As Steve would say “If I knew how much fun having grandchildren was I would have had them first”.

Steve dedicated his professional life to education and mentoring young people. He began his teaching career at Walkerville High School, where he taught mathematics and physical education. In 1985, he joined Hesperia High School, teaching mathematics while also coaching football and baseball. Throughout his distinguished career, Steve was respected for his commitment to his students, his ability to inspire confidence in young people, and his passion for learning. His excellence in the classroom earned him several Teacher of the Year awards. After many years of shaping the lives of students and athletes, he retired from teaching, leaving a lasting-legacy in the communities he served.

A man of deep faith, Steve was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in White Cloud. He faithfully served as a cantor for over 50 years and devoted more than 20 years as the sexton of St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, caring for the sacred grounds with dedication and respect. Steve also gave generously of his time to his community by coaching Little League, serving on the White Cloud School Board, officiating volleyball games as a referee, and participating as a member of the Knights of Columbus.

In retirement, Steve and Mary enjoyed spending their winters as snowbirds in Ruskin, Florida, where they made many treasured friendships and memories. Steve found great joy on the golf course, in the woods during hunting season, and most of all, surrounded by his family. Whether cheering on grandchildren, sharing stories, or lending a helping hand, he was happiest when spending time with those he loved.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Bleiler (Fowler); his children, Mark and Karen (Lemons) Bleiler, Melanie Bleiler, Jeffrey and Mindy (Bleiler) Thiessen, and Matthew Bleiler; his grandchildren, Noah (Ariana) Bleiler, Sage (Grant) Willman, Isaiah (Ellie) Bleiler, Kayleigh Bleiler, Jaylynn Bleiler, Drake (Kaitlyn) Thiessen, Alexandra (Benjamin) Marvillier, and Carson Thiessen; and his great-grandson, Jean-Charles Marvillier; his brother Roger (Luanne) Bleiler; and life long best friend Randy Mast.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Joan (Putz) Bleiler; his sister, Cathy Cruzan (Bleiler); and his brother, Alan Bleiler.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the Corewell Health Hospice Team for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Steve and his family.

Family and friends are invited to attend visitation services for Steve on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Crandell Funeral Home, White Cloud, Michigan. A Rosary service will follow from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in White Cloud, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Steve's memory.

Steve will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful servant of God, dedicated educator, coach, mentor, and friend. His life was a testament to service, generosity, and love. The lessons he taught, the lives he touched, and the example he set will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.