Mark B. Stephan

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, February 19, at 10:30 a.m. at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, KS. The family will welcome visitors at the church on Tuesday, February 18, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary service beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Mark was born on March 10, 1952, to James Bernard and Della Mae Stephan in Kansas City, KS. The youngest of three boys, he grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and plenty of childhood mischief. He often reminisced about adventures with his brothers and friends—running through the hollow, fixing up cars, and taking road trips with his family. He graduated from Argentine High School in 1970 and soon after, began his career as a skilled carpenter, joining the Carpenters Union.

In 1980, Mark met the love of his life, Nancy, when she hired him to work on her house. Little did they know that simple job would lead to a lifetime of love. The two married on August 10, 1984, and together built not just a home, but a life rich in laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion to one another. Mark adored Nancy, always referring to her as his “better half.”

Mark’s greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, a proud father, and a doting "Pops" to his grandchildren. He poured his heart into every moment he spent with them."

Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, building something with his own hands, or filling the room with his unmistakable, high-pitched laugh, Mark had a way of bringing everyone together and making every moment feel special.

Mark lived life to the fullest. He never met a stranger and was known for his kindness, loyalty, and infectious energy. A gifted craftsman, he ran a successful remodeling business that not only built homes but lasting friendships. He had a passion for adventure, whether it was traveling across the country on his motorcycle or spending time at the Lake of the Ozarks, where he found pure joy being on the water, boating with family and friends. And no matter where he was, he never passed up a good cookie.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, James and Della Stephan, his in-laws, Kenneth and Charlene Lyon, his Aunt Jean, cousins Jim and Lynette Hamel, his brother-in-law Larry Lyon, and other cherished loved ones.

He is survived by his brothers Jimmy and Ralph, his devoted wife, Nancy, and their four children and their spouses: Chris and Tina Stephan, Mark and Alexandra Stephan, Abby Stephan, and Erin and Josef Otmar. He leaves behind seven adoring grandchildren who cherished their “Pops”: Zachary, Bailey, Alexander, Jameson, Georgia, Isla, and Conrad.

To know Mark was to love him. His warmth, his laughter, and his unwavering love for his family will be carried in our hearts forever.

Please make all donations and contributions to KU Cancer Research or Nativity Parish in Leawood.