Arthur Delbert "Art" Stefka

Arthur "Art" Delbert Stefka, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on December 3rd, 2024, at the age of 74. He was born on July 5, 1950, in Galveston, Texas to Adolph and Helena (Kendall) Stefka.
Art grew up in Buffalo, Missouri and the Kansas City area, graduating from Shawnee Mission West High School in Overland Park Kansas in 1968. He attended the University of Missouri Kansas City, earning an undergraduate degree in psychology followed by a Law Degree from the University of Kansas in 1976.
Art built a career as a corporate attorney and executive in the mortgage and banking industry, practicing law in Kansas and Oklahoma before returning to Missouri with his family. He was admired for his strong work ethic and commitment to both his profession and loved ones.
As a younger man Art was passionate about football, playing defensive line and noseguard during college and at the semi-pro level. His love for sport continued as he coached youth football and baseball, and later proudly supported his sons' sporting events. Art had a lifelong interest in horse racing, having co-owned a stable in the Kansas City area while racing at various tracks in the Midwest. In his free time, Art enjoyed reading, going to the movies, traveling with his family on vacation, trivia games, and supporting the Kansas City Chiefs.
Art met his soulmate and best friend Joyce while in High School. They were wed on January 18th, 1969. Together, they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage, raising two sons, Jason and Brad, and creating a life full of joy, laughter, and treasured memories. In his later years, Art found immense happiness spending time with his grandchildren and attending their sporting events, recitals, concerts, and plays. His pride in his family was boundless.
Art is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; sons, Jason (April) Stefka and Brad (Vanessa) Stefka; his cherished grandchildren, Sophie, Abigail, Judson and Violet; and his sister Theresa Mustard. He is preceded in death by his father Adolph; his dear mother Helena and her husband Ellis Sargent; brothers, Marion Lutz and Marvin Lutz Sr.; and sister, Jessie Humphreys.
Art's quick wit and wisdom will be remembered fondly by family and friends. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were close to him.