Steven-Defenbaugh-Obituary

Steven Ellsworth Defenbaugh

Overland Park, Kansas

Mar 23, 1948 – Jul 19, 2025 (Age 77)

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BORN
March 23, 1948
DIED
July 19, 2025
AGE
77
LOCATION
Overland Park, Kansas

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Steven Ellsworth Defenbaugh March 23, 1948 - July 19, 2025 Lee's Summit, Missouri - Retired Yellow Transportation senior vice president Steven E. Defenbaugh passed away in Lee's Summit, Missouri on July 19, 2025, following a lengthy illness. He was born in Brush, Colorado March 23, 1948 to Elmer...

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Steve was a mentor to many including myself. We worked together for several years at Yellow and he became a good friend. He was a fantastic person in many ways and we all learned from him who were close. Gonna miss you Amigo.

Steve was a dedicated employee and friend during my employment with Yellow. He was a team player and a man of integrity, vision, caring, and beloved family man and father. He was so kind and insightful to hire my son at the Kansas City terminal of Yellow. Mark is still in the transportation industry . My prayers are with the family he loved so much. Sharon Evans

To the Defenbaugh Family: In today´s world, many claim the title of "leader," yet their words and actions often fall short of what true leadership demands. Titles can be granted, but character, communication, and integrity are what truly define a leader. In my experience, Steven Defenbaugh embodied all of these qualities with remarkable consistency. I will always be deeply grateful to Steven for hiring me fresh out of college to work in Dispatch at the Yellow DC across from the...

Sending our deepest condolences to you Cindy and Steve´s family. Steve was a sweet man who will be missed by many. Cindy, keep your memories close and we pray one day soon they will bring you joy and no more tears. God Bless and hugs to you

Our sympathy to you Cindy, and all of Steve´s family. We missed you both this past season at Montesa in AZ - every time we went past your house we´d look to see if you were there, had no idea Steve was ill, always wondered where you were. I´m so very sorry for your loss Sharon & Dennis Hanson from Montesa

It was a privilege and honor to be part of Steve´s team at Yellow. He was a mentor, motivator and great leader. My thoughts and prayers to the family. My family is very appreciative of the opportunities and support that Steve gave me during my time at Yellow. Great memories of Mr. D

We share in your sorrow and remember Steve with a kind heart. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time. May memories always comfort you.

Worked with Steve at Yellow and was lucky enough to play golf with him a couple of times as his guest. Absolutely the finest host! Still have the hat he bought me. Always thought of Steve as an all around good person. My sympathy to you all.