It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Jeffery (Bear) Allen Stephan I in
Grand Rapids, MI on Wednesday April 5, 2023 at the age of 67. Bear was born on December
20, 1955 in Grand Rapids, MI at Butterworth hospital.

Although born in the city, Bear was raised by his father in Hersey, MI for the majority of
his youth. Bear graduated from Reed City High School in 1974. Shortly after graduating he
served with the United States Air Force from 1975 to 1980. After serving his time with the
military Bear went on to work at Kindel Furniture, where he found a love of woodworking.
Although his time with Kindel Furniture came to an abrupt end, he was able to find another
passion, truck driving. He spent several years with Kuperus Trucking, moving to Luther Logistics
Transportation LLC after that; both of which held fond memories for him.

Proceeding Bear in death were his parents Doris Jean Pelton and Raymond Stephan;
sister JoAnn Stephan brothers Chuck Stephan, Greg Stephan.
Surviving Bear are his wife Sarah (Hikade) Stephan of 29 years; son Jeff (Nikól)
Stephan II, daughter Angela Bonnell; stepsons Nick (Wei) Sanderson and William (Kay)
Sanderson, Slater Stephan ("son") Siblings Kelly Boland, Nola (John) Savickas, Dale (Tina)
Pelton, Patrick (Michele) Pelton, Jesse Graham, Gordon Stephan, Janet Ishcomer. Bear also
had 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. With a loving and large extended family.