Steve Powelson

Stephen Eugene Powelson, age 71, of Moran, Kansas, passed away on October 15, 2025. He was born July 30, 1954, in Garnett, Kansas to John S. and Marilyn L. (Sheern) Powelson where they primarily raised their children in the Garnett and surrounding area on a farm alongside his siblings, learning the values of dedication, hard work, and family. As the third of nine children, Steve's life was shaped by those lessons, and his family fondly remembers that "Steve would always step up".

He graduated from Garnett High School in the class of 1972. Steve was known as a true goofball, quick to laugh, to make a memory, and to bring joy into any room. Though never one to ask for help, he was always the first to lend a hand, a reflection of his generous heart. His brother-in-law remembers a trip when Steve removed the net wrap from a bale of hay before driving a few miles, only to arrive with very little hay left, a story they joked about often. He loved music, especially Dwight Yoakam and Aaron Tippin, and enjoyed sharing those songs with the people around him.

Steve married Annette Croan on July 15, 1979, and this marriage was blessed with three children: Justin S., Lindsey R., and Chance E., Annette passed away in 2015.

In 1973, Steve met Sally at a bar in Garnett. He told his friends that night, "I will marry her." Though life took them in different directions for a time, after his divorce he crossed paths with her again while she was working at Chancy's restaurant in Moran. Their love story came full circle, uniting in marriage on May 23, 1986, and together they built a family filled with laughter, devotion, and countless memories. This marriage was blessed with one daughter, Sarina J.

Steve drove semi-trucks for many years, and his children recall fond memories of traveling with him all around the country. His wife remembers a time riding in the semi as he drove her through what seemed like all the seasons, winter, fall, summer, rain or shine. He loved telling stories of the road, and he carried the humor of those adventures with him.

Steve's grandchildren knew him as a source of encouragement and fun, with each carrying a special nickname given by their grandpa: LG, RJ, AJ, Skeeter, Lil Em, C-Man, Alfredo, Gabby Lou, and many others. His sister recalls that even in later years, when running into him at the Garnett Square Fair, she didn't need to see him first; she knew it was Steve calling out across the street with the childhood nickname only he still used.

Steve proudly served his country in both the United States Air Force and the Kansas National Guard. His service reflected his lifelong character, strong, dependable, and always willing to step forward when needed. Steve was a member of the MidPoint Baptist Church of Moran, and spent time as the Mayor of Bronson.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; son, Justin Scott Powelson and two brothers, Mark and Thomas Powelson.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife Sally Powelson; his children, Lindsey and husband Kenny of Garnett, Kansas, Chance and wife Emma of Dupont, Washington, and Sarina of Chanute, Kansas; 7 grandchildren, Ethan, Roselyn, Natalee, Casen, Emriss, Gabriella, and Izzabella who will forever cherish his memory; his 6 siblings, John M. Powelson, Sharilyn Powelson, David Powelson, Deborah Myers, Susan Tindell, and Cathy Hopkins; best friend Dwayne Martin; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at The Venue, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 US Hwy 54. Iola, Kansas. A private celebration of Steve's life will take place at a later date with burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Legion in Moran, Kansas, and may be left with Feuerborn Family Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com.