Life Legacy
RUTLAND - Steven H. Mann of Rutland, beloved son, brother, husband and father, died at home on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at age 50. Steven was a lifetime resident of Rutland and graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1983. He resided at Alta Vista Farm, the farm he grew up on. It was his world. He also had strong ties to camps in Maine where he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and closest friends.From his earliest childhood, Steven was passionate about nature and the outdoors. He had a love for animals, farming and hunting. His gentle way allowed him to calm and manage even the most difficult of animals, including the American Bison his family raised. People found his mild demeanor and quick wit most endearing. He was warm, generous and humble. He could connect with people of all ages and walks of life. Friends of his children all called him Pappa. Family and close friends affectionately called him Gus.Steven loved tradition and prided himself on his Swedish heritage. The traditional Swedish dishes he prepared for Christmas will be truly missed. Steven also loved history and trivia. As a child, he memorized all the answers on the Trivia game so he could beat his siblings. He hosted several Civil War enactments at the farm and involved himself with the Rutland Historical Society over the years.He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Pia H. Nielsen; his parents, Howard and Nancy (Cunningham) Mann of Rutland; his children from his first family, Sara Mann of New York City and Karl Mann of Worcester; his children from his second family, Chris Slater of Park City, UT and Tyler Fisher of Rutland; his stepchildren, Airiel M. Davis of Paxton and Gabrielle Wilson of Worcester; his sisters, Sally Mann of Temple, NH and Susan Mann of Hancock, NH; a niece, Aria Frehner of Hancock, NH; a grandson, Elijah Wilson of Worcester; along with beloved cousins and friends.Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Steven's family from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:30 to 8:30 pm on Friday, February 19th, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A celebration of Steven’s life will be held at Alta Vista Farm this coming summer. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit our "guest book" on this page.