Stephen R. Conley

Stephen R. Conley, 69, passed away Saturday, Aug. 3 at 4:40 a.m. peacefully in his home surrounded by his family.
Steve was born July 27, 1955 to Hershel and Adela (Dolly). He was the youngest of 3 boys, growing up in Lapaz. He graduated from Laville High School in 1973.
On March 2, 1972 he met his future wife, and on March 10, 1973, he married the love of his life, Creola Vires. Together they raised their 3 daughters: Niki, Stephanie, and Elizabeth.
Steve was a jack-of-all-trades, such a smart, intelligent, humble man. Never a thing he would not or could not fix or build. As a kid, he taught himself how to work on cars and worked hard to achieve what he wanted. His pride was his 1970 440 Plymouth Duster that he built from the bottom up, a beautiful car that he loved. He raced that car at the dragstrips in Osceola and Bunker Hill or went out on the weekends cruising and took his girls along.
Steve was not just a strong family man, but also an amazing neighbor and friend. Often jumping right in to go help anyone in need, packing up his tools and on his way. He worked as a heavy forklift mechanic before retiring in 2021. Steve's safe haven was his garage, where you could always find him working on something or tinkering around.
Over the years, Steve perfected making his barbecue chicken and ribs. He also never hesitated when his family asked for his trademark chili or tapioca pudding. He enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandkids grow up. He was a gentle man with a heart of gold and a belly laugh so amazing, and the most beautiful blue eyes. He had a terrific sense of humor, and he carried it with him throughout his illness. Telling the Pastor, he would "Put in a good word for him" when he got to the other side.
Left to cherish his memory are many friends and family, including his wife of 51 years, Creola; his girls: Niki (Phillip) Devos of Clarksville, TN; Stephanie Conley of Plymouth, IN; Elizabeth (Aaron Ellis) Conley of South Bend, IN; 9 grandchildren: Stephen Conley; Kennedey Conley; Jada Ellis; Daemon Hunsaker; Evan Conley; Phillip (PJ) Devos; Oran Christensen; Olin Christensen; and Aaron (AJ) Ellis. Also surviving are his much-loved brother, Carey (Jo) Conley of Reno, NV; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Clifford; his mother and father-in-law, George and Stella Vires; as well as his beloved dog, Mr. Mutley.
At Steve's wishes, there will be no services and cremation has taken place. The family will have a private celebration of his life at a later date.
Thank you to all our friends and community for your support during this difficult time.
Deaton-Clemens Van Gilder Funeral Home is honored to be providing our services in celebrating the life of Steve and wishes to extend our deepest condolences to the Conley family. Friends are invited to sign the online guest book and share memories with the family at: www.deatonclemensfh.com.