Stephen E. Kiper

Stephen E. "Steve" Kiper, 77, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Steve was born on April 8, 1949, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Kathryn A. Kiper and Paul E. Kiper. On April 30, 1988, he married the love of his life, Shirley Kiper. Together, they shared 38 years of marriage, building a life centered around love, family, and faith.

Steve was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Family was one of his greatest joys, and there was nowhere he would rather be than spending time with those he loved. He had a way of bringing warmth to those around him and was rarely seen without a smile on his face. His kindness, steady presence, and love for his family will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Throughout his life, Steve faced every health battle valiantly. He met each challenge with remarkable strength and courage, refusing to let life pass him by. He chose to keep smiling, keep loving, and keep enjoying the people and moments that mattered most.

Above all, Steve was strong in his faith. His faith carried him through life's joys as well as its trials and gave him strength and peace throughout his journey. Although his family will miss him more than words can express, they find comfort in knowing that this goodbye is not forever. We know we will see him again.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Kiper; his children, Christopher Kiper and his wife, Allison; Brandi Binder and Dan Wallace-Brewster; Michelle Johnson and her husband, David; and Miranda Hanshaw and her husband, Mike. He was also a proud and loving grandfather to 14 grandchildren, each of whom brought tremendous joy to his life.

He is also survived by his sisters, Janis K. Berry and her husband, Joe, and Mary S. Lakin and her husband, Roger, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many other family members and friends who will carry his memory with them.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Kathryn A. Kiper and Paul E. Kiper.

While his absence leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who loved him, Steve's life leaves behind something far greater: a legacy of love, faith, strength, and devotion to family. His smile will be remembered, his strength admired, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on through his family for generations to come.

Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Psalm 23:1-6 (KJV)