ELKHART [mdash] Steven Craig Stutsman, 72, of Elkhart, who was born in Goshen on March 11, 1953, to David and Kathryn "Kate" (Doerscher) Stutsman, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, Aug. 14. He married Kristie (Kurth) Stutsman on Jan. 19, 1985. He is survived by his wife, Kristie of Elkhart; two grandchildren, Kobi Craig Stutsman and Karder Steven Cain Stutsman; brother, Michael (Kathy) Stutsman of Elkhart; a sister, Elizabeth "Beth" Eldridge of Goshen; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents; a son, Justin Craig Stutsman; and a brother, James "Jim" Stutsman. A graduate of Concord High School, Steve went on to earn his degrees from Indiana University before beginning a lifelong career in education and coaching. He taught social studies at Northridge (Middlebury) and West Side (Elkhart) Middle Schools and later served as a special education teacher at Elkhart Central High School. While at Elkhart Central, Steve began his coaching journey in football and discovered his true passion in baseball. He served as an assistant football coach for several years and as the head baseball coach at Elkhart Central for 25 years. His leadership culminated in the 2013 IHSAA State Baseball Championship, where he was named Indiana High School Baseball Coach of the Year for Class 4A. That same year, he earned NIC Baseball Coach of the Year honors and later had the privilege of coaching the Indiana North/South All-Star Game in 2018. Recognized by his peers, he was elected president of the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Association for the 2014-2015 year. Beyond the classroom and ballfield, Steve cherished time with family and friends, traveling often and making memories with those he loved most. He found joy in caring for his yard and garden and remained a lifelong, loyal fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox. Those who knew Steve will remember him as a man who went out of his way to help others grow. He was a father where a father was needed, a friend where a friend was needed, a coach where a coach was needed, and a mentor where a mentor was needed. He carried a unique ability to challenge and push others toward becoming the best versions of themselves, leaving behind a legacy of encouragement, strength, and love. Friends and family are invited to a viewing from 2-8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, at Rieth Rohrer Ehret Funeral Home, 311 S. Main St., Goshen, IN 46526 and one hour prior to an 11 a.m. funeral service Tuesday, Aug. 26, at West Goshen Church, 1200 Berkey Ave., Goshen. Burial will follow in West Goshen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed toward The Community Foundation of Elkhart County for the Coach Kurth Memorial Fund. Mail to PO Box 2932 Elkhart, IN 46515. Make checks payable to Community Foundation of Elkhart County with "Coach Kurth" in the memo line. Online condolences may be sent at www.rrefh.com.