Steven W. Ketteler
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Surrounded by the love of his family, Steve W. Ketteler, 78, left this world on March 5th, 2025.
He was a devoted husband, proud father, cherished grandfather, beloved sibling, fun loving uncle and friend to many. He died with dignity and grace, just as he lived his life. He was a respected banker for over 45 years until he retired and moved to Florida. He shared his leadership and wisdom through active involvement in his civic and faith-based communities throughout his life. An avid sports fan, he also developed a passion for biking in recent years. Steve’s strong work ethic, integrity, and kindness will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Steve is survived by his wife Judy (Desch) Ketteler (Cape Coral, FL); daughter Amy Clark and husband David (Lawrence, KS); son Reid Ketteler (Shawnee, KS); grandsons Brennan and Mitchell Clark and Gus Ketteler. He is also survived by his siblings Gary Ketteler (Linda) of Hot Springs, AK; Jan Carmody (Randy) of Woodbury, MN; Sandy Hansen (Mike) of Omaha, NE, as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Steve was preceded in death by his wife of almost 40 years Marty (O’Connor) Ketteler, his parents Jerome and Adelyne Ketteler and sister Cheryl Chapman.
A 9:30 a.m. Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday March 29, 2025 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 409 E. 8th St, Eudora, KS 66025. You will have time to greet family following the Mass at a luncheon in the parish hall.
In lieu of flowers, Steve suggested memorial contributions to help aid others in their battle with ALS via the ALS Clinic, Attn: Carol Emmick, 13601 Plantation Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33912 and can be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W 13th Street, Lawrence, KS, 66044.
Never understand why good people have to suffer indescribably at end of life- cancer and als destroy from inside out – how we have not found a cure for either but have done so with covid is tragic- to the family/friends of Mr K knowing that he has now reclaimed his vessel is relieving I am sure- and even though I only knew him a short time when he was visiting at Reids a few times- he carried a calm but vibrant energy– in the words of the band kansas– carry on my wayward son- there will be peace when you are done- lay your weary head to rest,don’t u cry no more- sincerely Jeff Robinson
While everyone who knew him was aware steve was a solid dependable upright man , to me he was much more. We shared our youth in Omaha and Lincoln through college and weddings and babies. He loved mine and I loved his…years of laughter and tears…we were all happy when Steve and Judy became an item and have cheered him on in his biking and retirement pursuits. Some losses are harder than others and I’m having a difficult time missing him in my world..
Prayers and strength sent to Judy and the kids. We’ll see you soon
Steve was a one of a kind type of man. From the minute I met him I loved him. I used to ask Reid if we could go over to Steve’s house and crash his “gentleman’s night” where him and his friends would play bridge and try out different restaurants (this was before Judy and he moved to Florida). He was always my favorite Reid person. He showed me kindness and love and always gave me a sincere smile and hug. He was the epitome of what I would describe as a wonderful man. Loved his family deeply and had more patience than most and would always listen without judgement. I will miss his smile the most. He truly was one of the great gentleman of my life. Hugs and love to all those that knew him and to his great loves (his wife, children, grandsons, and siblings). I will continue to pray for your hearts to find peace during your grief.
I worked for and around 100’s of loan officers for decades helping liquidate capital assets. Always a fraught and personally painful process for the borrower. Steve was absolutely the kindest, coolest guy every time.
Sending prayers and condolences from the Graf family.
Steve was one if my best friends! I will miss him immensely. He and I met through Cape Coral New Residents Club and it just got better and better after that. Loved spending time with Steve and Judy, nothing but fun and good times. I will miss our weekly barbecue lunches, our trips that we went on together and gathering at each others house for great conversations and lots if true friendship. Great guy that will be missed
We are saddened by loss of our beloved Steve (brother in-law and uncle). His kindness will remain in our heart and mind. A quote from Persian poet Rumi ” when I die”:
When my coffin
Is being taken out
You must never think
I am missing this world
Don’t shed any tears
Don’t lament or
Feel sorry
I’m not falling
Into a monster’s abyss
When you see
My corpse is being carried
Don’t cry for my leaving
I’m not leaving
I’m arriving at eternal love
When you leave me
In the grave
Don’t say goodbye
Remember a grave is
Only a curtain
For the paradise behind
You’ll only see me
Descending into a grave
Now watch me rise
How can there be an end
When the sun sets or
The moon goes down
It looks like the end
It seems like a sunset
But in reality it is a dawn
When the grave locks you up
That is when your soul is freed
Have you ever seen
A seed fallen to earth
Not rise with a new life
Why should you doubt the rise
Of a seed named human
Have you ever seen
A bucket lowered into a well
Coming back empty
Why lament for a soul
When it can come back
Like Joseph from the well
When for the last time
You close your mouth
Your words and soul
Will belong to the world of
No place no time