Stephen Wetli

Stephen Wayne Wetli passed away on April 25, 2026 at 1:34am, at the age of 75. He was born on March 31, 1951 and raised in Earl Park, Indiana. He grew up on a farm working and playing with his siblings. He left behind a legacy of steady work, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Stephen married the love of his life, Louise Wetli, in 1974, and together they built a life centered around family in Killeen, Texas. He was Louise’s anchor that kept her grounded in life. He was a devoted father to his four daughters: Tina Wetli (Jeffrey), Stephanie Garrett (Michael), Theresa Wetli, and Suzanne Wetli (Timothy) who will forever carry his memory and knowledge with them.

He was a proud grandfather to ten grandchildren: Steven, Padraic, Elizabeth, Tristian, Matthew, Joelyn, Blake, Trinity, Sophia, and Bentley. He also had four great-grandchildren: Leah, Ethan, Camilla, and Waylen. All of them brought him joy and pleasure. He always seemed to light up when he would spend time with them.

He worked for the local telephone companies for 30+ years. A hardworking man, Stephen spent his career in cable splicing, taking pride in his work. He received certification for fiberoptic splicing. Outside of his job, he was known for always staying active. Whether he was mowing lawns, lending a helping hand to family and neighbors, or working on projects. He could fix almost anything.

Stephen had a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing and walking. In 2020 Stephen and Louise bought a travel trailer and had just started taking trips to local parks. He really enjoyed quality time together with the family. In recent years, he became a devoted dog lover to his three puppies: Daisy Mae, Gidget, and Penny. They provided him with joy, love and humor everyday.

Though a man of few words, Stephen had a sense of humor and a talent for making those around him smile with his jokes. His quiet presence and kind actions spoke louder than words ever could.

He is also survived by his three brothers: Richard (Sandy) Wetli, Edward (Trudy) Wetli, and Ronald (Cheryl) Wetli. Also surviving are his four sisters: Mary Lucille (Tony) Sherfey, Patricia James, Kathleen (Jim) Long, and Denise Wetli and Gloria Kutscheid; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his mother Vera Rita (Deno) Wetli and father Donald Wilfred Wetli and his brother in-law Gene James.

Stephen will be remembered for his willingness to help others, and the love he gave so freely to his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and will be in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to SouthWest Bell County Fire Department swbcvfd.org who helped him in the past, a food pantry, or a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be held at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 S Fort Hood St, Killeen, Texas 76542, on May 13, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with the Funeral to follow at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home on May 14, 2026, at 11:00 am with Pastor Louis Crooks officiating.