Steven D. Roper

Steven D. Roper, 71, was born September 15, 1954, in Lincoln, Nebraska, and passed away on May 12, 2026. A lifetime Lincoln resident, Steve’s steady presence and quiet devotion to those around him marked a life lived with deep purpose and care.

Steve was the son of Jack and Sylvia (Mills) Roper and grew up in Lincoln alongside his sister, Deborah. From the beginning, family mattered to him—not only in name, but in the everyday ways he showed up, helped, and made room for others.

For more than 25 years, Steve drove truck for American Tire Distributors, running a dedicated route delivering tires. He retired in February 2020.

In June 1992, Steve married Esther Strain in Lincoln. He became a devoted father figure to Esther’s children and lovingly raised his grandson, Aaron, as his own.

Steve found joy in simple pleasures and shared pastimes such as golfing, fishing, camping, and bowling. He also loved watching NASCAR and watching races at Eagle Raceway. He was a devoted fan of many Nebraska Cornhusker sports. He valued time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, treasuring the moments that brought everyone together. One of his favorite stories to tell was about serving as a judge in Unadilla, Nebraska, for a Spam contest.

Steve’s life also carried the strength of perseverance and the generosity of service. He received his 38-year chip from Alcoholics Anonymous and attended meetings at least twice a month. After Esther passed away in 2013, he started attending meetings up to 7 times a week. He gave back by serving as a sponsor for many others struggling with addiction, offering steady guidance and support.

Steve was preceded in death by his wife, Esther, and his parents, Jack and Sylvia Roper. He is survived by his sister, Deborah (Kelly) Blacketer; his stepchildren, Richard Carney, Patricia Dickinson, and Shawna (Brian) Carlson; grandchildren, Aaron (HolliAnn), Naomi (Nathan), Cassandra (Hunter), Junior, Mathew, Racheal, and Trinity; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Steve will be held at 2:00PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, located at 6800 S 14th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. A visitation will be held for an hour prior to services.

A reception will be held after the burial at The Meeting Place, located at 2748 S St, Lincoln, Nebraska.

Memorials may be given to the family for future designation.