Stephen Challis Obituary
Norway, Iowa — Stephen Bertram Challis, 74, passed away on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.
Stephen was born in Boston, Massachusetts, the son of Stephen and Nancy (Greenlaw) Challis Jr. Throughout his life, he held many different occupations, but later in his career, he made his home on Cape Cod, where he continued his driving career with the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA). He took great pride in his work and in the many special clients he served.
In May 2024, Stephen and his life partner, Grace Schaefer, moved to Iowa, settling in Norway. He quickly grew fond of the community and enjoyed meeting new friends. Stephen was an excellent cook and loved making trips to the grocery store to gather supplies for his next meal. He was also an avid NASCAR fan and especially loved watching the races with Gracie by his side.
Stephen is survived by his life partner, Grace Schaefer; and his siblings, Lisa Conway, Nancy Baillargeon, Raymond Challis, and Arthur Challis. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Powell Funeral Home in Williamsburg, Iowa. Messages and tributes may be shared at http://www.powellfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
407 North Highland St. PO Box 269, Williamsburg, IA 52361
People and places connected with Stephen
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Challis
Make a Donation
in Stephen Challis's name
How to support Stephen's loved ones
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 more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
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 moreWays to honor Stephen Challis'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
