STEPHEN F. STEPHENS

STEPHEN F. STEPHENS, 74, of rural Avilla, passed away on Sunday, July 2, 2017, 9:10 p.m., at his home surrounded by his family. Born Sept. 1, 1942, in Marion, he was the son of Clifford and Ruth (Barrick) Stephens. He spent his formative years in La Fontaine graduating from La Fontaine High School in 1960. In 1964, Steve volunteered to serve in the United States Army. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him a Purple Heart. On Aug. 19, 1967, he married the love of his life Linda Buckner. They would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in August. Steve was a lifelong fan and stock holder of the Green Bay Packers. He was also a devoted fan of IU basketball up until September 10, 2000. He was a member of Sugar Grove Church of God. No one was more excited than Steve, when on Nov. 8, 2016 we voted to "Make America Great Again". Steve is survived by his wife, Linda; three daughters, Kristine (Raymond) Webster of Granger, Tracy (Ed) Wright of Fort Wayne and Stephanie Stephens of Auburn; a son, Brian (Noelani) Stephens of Churubusco; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter, Kelley Stephens-Mohler. Funeral service is 11 a.m. Friday, July 14, 2017, at Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, 206 N. Main St., Churubusco (IN 46723). with calling one hour prior. Calling also from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 13, 2017, at the funeral home. A longtime family friend, Pastor Rick Van Horn will officiate. Burial will follow the service at Christian Chapel Cemetery, Merriam. Memorials may be directed to the Vietnam War Wall Memorial or S.A.R.C. (Sarcoma Alliance through Research & Collaboration).