Steven Oltmans

Steven (Steve) Glenn Oltmans, 80, of Omaha, Nebraska, died on Oct. 31, 2024. He was the oldest of two children born to Glenn and Della Oltmans.

Steve graduated from Nelson High School in 1961, where he met his wife of 60 years, Barbara Johnston. After high school, Steve moved to Lincoln, where he began his college education at the University of Nebraska at the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, with an emphasis in Water Resources. Steve and Barb were married in 1963 in Nelson. After completing his degree in 1966, they relocated to Omaha with their two oldest sons, Curt and Brad. After a brief time in Omaha and the addition of their third son Todd, Steve's job took them to Clarkson, Nebraska. Their family was complete when Chris was born in Norfolk, Nebraska, prior to Barb and Steve's final move to Omaha in 1986.

Steve dedicated 40 years to the Natural Resources District, serving in key roles: assistant manager of the Papio Watershed (1966-1969), general manager of the Maple Creek Watershed (1969-1972), general manager of the Lower Elkhorn NRD (1972-1986), and general manager of the Papio-Missouri NRD (1986-2006). He played a pivotal role in drafting the Nebraska Natural Resources District Legislation, which was adopted as law in 1968 and formally implemented on July 1, 1972.

After leaving the NRD, Steve worked with Olsson Associates from 2006 to 2009 and again from 2013 to 2016. In between, he served as chief of staff for the City of Omaha during Mayor Jim Suttle's administration from 2009 to 2013. He continued to advocate for sustainable practices and community development.

Steve's commitment to civic leadership and community involvement was remarkable. He was a member of the Omaha Suburban Rotary Club from 1986 to 2023, participated in the Omaha World Herald's "Branching Out Program" from 1997 to 2000, served with the Mid America Boy Scout Council from 1976 to 2006, and was a member of the Omaha United Way Board of Directors from 1996 to 2000. Additionally, he was a member of the Norfolk City Council from 1983 to 1986 and served as chairman of the Norfolk United Way in 1980-1981.

After retiring, Steve became an avid walker, walking miles around Lake Zorinsky. He could often be found either on the golf course or sitting poolside at their winter home in Mesa, Arizona. Steve was known for his passion for the environment and his unwavering dedication to making a positive difference. He was a loving husband, father and friend, cherished for his wisdom and humor.

He is survived by his wife, Barb; his sons, Curt (Lisa), Brad (Stacy), Todd (Colleen), and Chris (Jaclyn); and eight grandchildren: Connor, Sam, Christopher, Cameron, Evelyn, Olivia, Arianna and Lola. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Della, and his brother, Dudley.

His funeral was at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, 2024, at Divine Shepherd, 15005 Q Street.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be made to GraceHill Church, 20275 Honeysuckle Dr. STE 110, Elkhorn, NE 68022. Or the Steve Oltmans Memorial Fund.