Stephen Scott Clapper

Stephen "Steve" Scott Clapper, 77, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on January 7, 1948, to John Wesley and Helen Betty (Hutchins) Clapper in Billings, Montana. Steve spent his high school years in Japan, where he attended Narimasu High School and earned a black belt in Shotokan Karate. His family relocated to Albuquerque where he graduated from Highland High School in 1966. A trailblazer in his youth, Steve founded the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Karate Club in 1966 while beginning his studies at the University of New Mexico.

In March 1970, Steve married his beloved wife, Karen Clapper, with whom he built a life filled with love and family for the next 55 years.

Steve earned his bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico in January 1971 and was commissioned into the U.S. Navy, serving with Assault Craft Unit One aboard the USS Denver (LPD-9). After his honorable discharge in 1972, he completed his master's degree in education at the University of New Mexico. Steve's passion for teaching defined his 37-year career with Albuquerque Public Schools, where he inspired students at John Baker Elementary, Whittier Elementary, Montezuma Elementary, and Grant Middle School. After retiring in 2009, he continued teaching at the College of Santa Fe and St. Therese Catholic School, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues through his dedication to education and community.

A thoughtful and loving man, Steve found joy in life's simple pleasures. He cherished camping and fishing with his daughters, traveling with his wife, and tending to his yard and garden, where he cultivated flowers and vegetables with care. His beloved dogs, constant companions, brought boundless happiness to his days. Steve's kindness and warmth touched everyone he met, making him a cherished husband, father, friend, and mentor.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Clapper of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his three daughters, Keri Clapper of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Kelly Reed (John) of Evans, Georgia, and Stephanie Clapper (Jason Boggs) of Key West, Florida; his eight grandchildren, Kaitlyn, River, Ryan, Avery, Collin, Michaela, Aidan, and Liam; his older brother, John Clapper; his younger sisters, Rebecca Kennedy and Dana Shafer; and his younger brother, Jeffery Clapper. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Helen Clapper; his older brother, Gregory Clapper; and his younger sister, Deborah Clapper.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate care provided by Bosque Trails Hospice, the 3-S unit at University of New Mexico Hospital, and the Raymond G. Murphy Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

A private family service will be held in July at Santa Fe National Cemetery. An open house celebration of Steve's life will take place on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the home of his daughter, Keri Clapper, in Albuquerque. All are welcome to join in honoring his remarkable legacy.