Stephen Michael Fyke

Stephen Michael Fyke, 75 of Gladstone, Missouri, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2026 following a long and valiant battle with cancer. Born in Kansas City, Missouri to Vernita “Jackie” O’Dell and Jack D.W. Fyke, Steve was a lifelong Northlander. He attended Arapahoe High School in Denver, Oak Park High School, and Maple Woods Community College in Kansas City.

Always quick with a smile and a story, to say Steve was spirited might be an understatement. Much like Frank Sinatra’s famous song, he truly did life his way.

His career in sales began at the age of eleven, selling Fluffy Fresh donuts door-to-door each week and earning ten cents per sale. That entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him into the insurance and security industries. In 1994, he ventured into business for himself and began a successful 24-year run with Commercial Cleaning Associates, where he enjoyed every aspect of small business ownership, from sales to management.

An athlete from an early age, Steve began playing B League baseball at age five and later became an accomplished competitive softball player. He played for several local teams and managed TNT and CCA, with multiple teams qualifying for national tournaments.

Steve discovered his greatest passion in 1974 when he wandered off a football field near Swope Park and stopped to watch a friend’s rugby match. Though unfamiliar with the sport, he joined the practice, beginning a love affair with rugby that would last more than four decades. He started with the Kansas City Bulls and later played with numerous local and national teams. In 1975–76, he made the first cut for the national team that would eventually become USA Rugby. Some of his favorite memories came from competing in the Aspen Ruggerfest, stories he loved to retell for years afterward. Over the course of his 43-year rugby career, Steve played wing for teams from Kansas City, Colorado, Florida, Virginia, Minnesota, and anywhere else a team needed a player. At age 66, he walked off the pitch for the final time with the Colorado Senior Old Boys.

Steve’s wife, Janet, was his biggest fan. Together they traveled to countless local and national tournaments, visiting 17 different cities in a single year alone.

His competitive nature extended beyond sports into strategic computer games such as Risk and Civil War Generals. Known online as “Grudgebringer,” he competed with players from around the world.

Steve also shared his love of ancient history, philosophy, astrology, music, and storytelling through countless hours-long conversations. We will think of him whenever we see Orion shining in the night sky.

His wit, humor, and larger-than-life stories filled the lives of those around him with laughter. He was an avid reader and music lover who could identify nearly any classic rock song by its opening notes and describe the album cover from memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack D. W. Fyke and Vernita “Jackie” O’Dell; stepmother, Janice K. Fyke; brothers, Larry Fyke and Douglas Fyke; and daughter, Angela McCracken. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Janet; stepson, Christopher Williamson (Andrea); grandchildren, Matthew Fyke (DeAnna) and Vanessa Fyke; great-grandchildren, Nikolai, Aleister, Deaglan, Neveah, Marley, and Nyella; numerous cousins; and his beloved dog, Carmen.

With heartfelt appreciation, the family thanks the in-home team at Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care of Michelle Casey, Michael Arciga, and Sam Gallegos. Their exceptional care and guidance were invaluable. He received the same level of care at NorthCare Hospice House and the family will be forever grateful. The incredible prayers and support of loved ones, friends, rugby mates and softball buddies meant so much. Thank you!

At Steve’s request, no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care at KCHospice.org.