Steven Jay Ensley

Steve leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie. Those who loved him will miss the booming laugh and disarming smile that he shared so frequently with his friends at Capital Brewery and the world. His friends will remember him as the “Friendly Sasquatch” or “Grizzly Adams” who was always willing to lend a hand. He attended Beloit Memorial High School as a member of the class of 1981 and graduated from Madison Area Technical College with a degree in Computer Programming.

In his 61 years with us, he made many great marks on the world. He was proud of achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and his 8 years in the United States Army Reserves/Wisconsin National Guard. He made a name for himself as a computer programmer in a time when many people had never even seen one.

Outside of work, he held many interests such as brewing his own craft beers and fermenting his own spirits. This led to his involvement in organizing community events and festivals. Those who brewed at home knew him as a kindly expert, who would give freely of his knowledge when asked. He was even appointed to embody King Gambrinus at the Great Taste of the Midwest. Steve was a skilled woodworker who created items for family and friends that they will cherish forever.

After the loss of his wife and upon his retirement, he hit the road to fulfill his dream of travel. He crossed the country in an RV, meeting new people and helping to maintain the nation's parks as a volunteer site manager. This work eventually took him to his final assignment at Trout Pond Recreational Area in the Apalachicola National Forest. Here he got to be near his sister and her children and grandchildren.

Steve rejoins his wife Debra Kay Ensley (nee Butterfuss) of 36 years, his Mother Lorrie, father David, and brother Robert in death. He leaves behind his sister Teresa (Brian) Yankee, Stepmother Voni Jones, bonus brothers Timothy Strand and Matthew (Angie) Strand, cousin Micheal Porter, nieces Emily Yankee (Chris Yates), Beth (Asher) Wildman, Stephanie Serrano, and Holly Klein and other extended family in Wisconsin and Florida.

There are no formal services scheduled at this time. Please feel free to leave a memory of Steven for the Ensley family to cherish for years to come.