Fred Stephenson

Fred Stephenson, truly beloved husband and father, passed away surrounded by his family, after complications following back surgery.

He is mourned by his loving wife of 65 years, Shirley (Strahan) Stephenson, daughters Diane Hanekamp (John), Jan Stephenson, Lori Stephenson (Jim Hixson), and Terri Hoff (Bill), and grandsons Jake Tweedy, Jim Hoff, Joe Hoff and Michael Hanekamp.

Besides his natural golfing gift, Fred was known for his lightning-quick wit, the ability to tell a fine joke, and true generosity with time and talents.

Fred grew up in Alton, Illinois, and was introduced to his future wife, Shirley, when they were both in college. He graduated from University of Illinois with his degree in Mechanical Engineering. Fred and Shirley married in 1950. He then served in the Army, working on the Redstone Rocket Project in Huntsville, AL. They eventually became parents of four brilliant daughters.

He worked as a mechanical engineer at several major companies including Standard Oil and KSH Plastics, from which he retired.

An avid fisherman and lifelong brilliant golfer, he was inducted into the Greater Alton Golf Hall of Fame. He held the course record at Alton Municipal GC, a record which still stands today. Longtime members of Webster Gardens Lutheran Church, Fred served as a church elder and on the usher team. He was extraordinarily competitive at games, and played a mean boogie-woogie on the piano. He always had a riddle or joke at the ready, and loved to laugh with those around him.

Fred will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

SERVICES: There will be a visitation from 4-8 pm on Friday, September 18, 2015 at Gerber Chapel, 23 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119. The funeral service will be at 9:30 am on Saturday, at the Lutheran Church of Webster Gardens, 8749 Watson Rd, Webster Groves, MO 63119. The interment will follow in St. Paul Churchyard. In memory of Fred contributions are encouraged to the Lutheran Church of Webster Gardens or KFUO-Radio, 1333 S. Kirkwood Road, St. Louis, MO 63122.