Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
CW4 Robert “Keith” Stephan, ARMY (Ret)
FUNERAL HOME
CW4 Robert Stephan, ARMY (Ret) Obituary
A Celebration of Life for CW4 Robert “Keith” Stephan, ARMY (Ret.), 80, will take place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Sykes Funeral Home. Burial will follow at KY Veterans Cemetery West, where full military honors will be rendered. The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM and again on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service.
Keith was born on November 15, 1944, in Cincinnati, OH, to Robert and Mavis Stephan. Keith was a 1976 graduate of Cameron University and dedicated over 30 years of service to the United States Army, completing two tours in Vietnam and Korea as a pilot of both Cobra and Huey helicopters. While stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, he earned his fixed-wing pilot license. His most cherished role was as a Chinook pilot with the 1/60 Nightstalkers. Throughout his military career, Keith received numerous distinguished awards and service medals, though he consistently attributed his achievements to the efforts of others. After retiring, he took pride in raising black Angus cattle and was honored as a Master Beef Producer. Keith was awarded the 2014 Conservation Progress Award and the 2001 Extension Award for Most Improved Beef Production. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Tedi Threatt, and son-in-law, Daryl Threatt. Keith is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Judy Seipelt Stephan; children Jay (Leilani) Ross, Tonya (George) Cunningham, Christopher (Terri) Stephan, and Tifini (Tommy) Bain; grandchildren Sean, Ashlea, Aubrea, Morgan, Cooper, Caden, Casen, Bella, and Brinli; six great-grandchildren; and sister Judy (John) Waits.
Pallbearers will be Cooper Cunningham, Caden Cunningham, Casen Cunningham, Cain Smith, Mikey Pulley, and Craig Crockarell.
Honorary pallbearers will be David Taylor, Ed Bevil, Cole Hedden, and the former 160th brothers, who respectfully referred to him as “Big Daddy.”
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice Care and Silver Angels, with special appreciation to Melanie Gibson for her unwavering support during this time.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for CW4 Robert Stephan, ARMY (Ret)
Make a Donation
in CW4 Robert Stephan, ARMY (Ret)'s name
Memorial Events
for CW4 Robert Stephan, ARMY (Ret)
How to support CW4 Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor CW4 Robert Stephan, ARMY (Ret)'s life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
