Richard William Stephens

Richard William Stephens  

February 19, 1952-May 25, 2024

Richard William Stephens, known for his dedication to his community love for his family, passed away on May 25, 2024, in the comfort of his home. He was born on February 19, 1952, in Gary, IN.

Richard led a remarkable life filled with various passions and accomplishments. He dedicated 30 years of his life as an umpire for softball games, where he showcased fairness and sportsmanship. Richard was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, showcasing his unwavering support for his favorite team. In his youth, he participated in road racing with the Chicago Marathon and demonstrated love for gardening by planting flowers in his yard.

Education held a special place in Richard's heart as he attended Hammond Tech for electrical engineering and later shared his expertise at the steel mills while teaching electrical engineering to many aspiring individuals.

Outside of work, Richard found joy in moments spent at Ace Hardware where he willingly shared his knowledge and passion. He enjoyed challenging himself with crossword puzzles and cherished the tradition of watching his family open Christmas gifts and hosting cookouts.

Richard leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by those who survive him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Margaret Stephens. 

Richard is survived by his loving wife Janis, children Matthew (Emily) Stephens, Cheree (Craig) Lewis, Andrew Ransom, Brylee McKeehan, Laura Ransom, siblings Robert (Alice) Stephens, Fred (Janet) Stephens, Edward (Jessica) Stephens, Janet (Jesse) Hernandez, Carol (Gary) Prange, Peggy (Jay) Myers as well as numerous grandchildren including Ethan Lewis, Austin Lewis, Cameron Lewis, Colin Stephens, Madison Stephens, Kearsten Stephens, Ashlyn Stephens, Ariel Schlundt, Shane McKeehan, Brielle McKeehan, Addisyn Ransom, Teagen Ransom, and Emma Ransom.

In addition to his beloved family members mentioned above are also great-grandchild Sawyer Lewis and a host of relatives and friends who mourn his loss greatly.

Richard William Stephens will be fondly remembered for his kind heartedness and unwavering dedication to those around him. May he rest in peace knowing that he has left an indelible mark on all those whose lives he touched.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 602 Maple Ave., LaPorte, IN. A memorial gathering will be on Saturday, July 13 starting at 1 PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at the funeral home beginning at 2 PM followed by a reception after family reflections. Cremation has taken place.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of choice in Richard's name. 

Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.