Stephen Sylvester Baus, also lovingly referred to as "Stevus," passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, in Columbus, WI, at the age of 75. Born on March 6, 1950, in Fond du Lac, WI. Stephen lived a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures.

Stephen graduated from New Holstein High School in 1968, where Evelyn Greuel caught his eye, sitting in the school library as a freshman. Their love story continued to flourish as he pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, graduating in December 1973. Four months later, on April 27, 1974, he married his true love. September 27, 1980, he achieved a significant milestone by passing his CPA examination. He went on to become a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and Wisconsin Certified Public Accountants (WICPA).

His professional journey began in 1974 with Alfred Hill & Co., where he audited farm supply co-ops. In 1983, he joined CERTCO, INC., starting as an accountant for the member grocery stores. His dedication and expertise led to a series of promotions: first to Office Manager in 2000 and then to Vice President Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in 2005. He held this esteemed position until his retirement in 2014.

Stephen's zest for life extended beyond his professional accomplishments. For twenty consecutive years, he embraced the rugged beauty of the Boundary Waters through canoeing, fishing, and camping—adventures that earned him the title of "Manly Man." His adventurous spirit also led him and Evelyn on many vacations to Mexico and Hawaii and cruises through Europe and the Caribbean. He was a former member of Kiwanis Club, Knights of Columbus, and St Jerome's Parish having served on the Finance Committee.

Known for his kind words, laughter that could fill a room, giant sneezes that could startle children to tears, Stephen had a unique ability to make everyone feel special. A devoted father, grandfather (Papa), friend, and storyteller, he turned ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. His generosity knew no bounds—he gave freely of his time, love, and humor.

In January 2024, he came out of retirement to share a special experience with his granddaughter, Isabelle, by participating in the Badger State Games 3D Archery Competition. Together, they achieved a team score of 447 and proudly secured 14th place in the Middle School Division—a cherished memory that exemplified his love for supporting his grandchildren.

Stephen's life was enriched by his deep connections with loved ones. He is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Evelyn, whose unwavering care and love supported him during his courageous two-year battle with cancer; his children, lovingly referred to as #1, #2, and #3, Rebecca Baus, Megan Niehoff (Chris), and Jacob Baus (Crystal); grandchildren Isabelle and Colton Niehoff, Lily, Violet, and Holly Baus; and his furry grandbaby Franci Baus. He is also survived by his brothers Vernon Baus (Kathleen), William Baus (Rosalie), Thomas Baus (Marlene), Philip Baus (Darlyn), and George Baus (Brenda), his sisters; Kathryn Schafer (Reuben), Claudia Wagner (John), and Marion Manderscheid (Michael), his brother-in-law; Michael Greuel (Pamela), sisters-in-law; Carol Maynard and Sharon Ortell; as well as extended family and many dear friends. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents John and Mary Alice Baus; mother- and father-in-law Virginia and Alfred Greuel; sister Susan Cramer; brothers-in-law Gary Maynard and Tom Ortell; nephew Chris Baus; and nephew-in-law Greg Kallas.

The world is a little less bright without Stephen in it. His legacy lives on in the laughter he inspired, the adventures he shared, and the love he poured into every relationship. As those who knew him reflect on his remarkable life, they will remember a man who lived fully and loved deeply—a complete and exceptional individual whose like we shall not see again.

May Stephen's memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Visitation: will be held at 9:00 A.M. Saturday, March 28, 2026 at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 1550 Farnham Street, Columbus, WI. Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 A.M. Inurnment will be at St. Cloud Cemetery, St. Cloud, WI.

In lieu of flowers, it was Stephen's request that donations be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org) or Prairie Ridge Volunteer Scholarship Fund.

someone so full of life
now so still
someone that made you laugh so hard,
now it's hard not to weep
someone who listened to your problems,
now so quiet
someone so strong and helped so much,
now at peace
he loved us and we loved him
he will be missed even as he lives on in all of us.
-george baus

The family wishes a heartfelt thank you to those that provided Steve with the best care  we could have hoped for: Columbus Fire Department, LifeStar EMS, Prairie Ridge Hospital 4th Floor Nursing Staff and Physical Therapy Dept, David F. Jarrard, MD (UW Hospital, Urology Department), Glenn Liu, MD (UW Hospital, Medical Oncology), John Floberg, MD, PhD (UW Hospital, Radiation Oncology), Karol Huenerberg, APNP (UW Hospital), Elise Malzer, MD (Prairie Ridge Hospital), Erica Glass, APNP (formerly UW Hospital), Sadie Siarkiewicz, PA (UW Hospital, Urology), Ryan Bender (Forward Pharmacy), Bruce A. Kraus, MD, Home Again Assisted Living Columbus, Bristol Hospice, Columbus Nursing And Rehab Center.

We encourage you to share your online condolences with Stephen's family at jensenfuenralandcremation.com