On Thursday, September 15, 2022, Stephen Neal Blackwell, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away. He was 67. Born to Richard and Dorothy Blackwell, Steve graduated from Concordia High School in 1973. He served in the U.S. Army as a medic from 1976 to 1978. He was a proud veteran and continued to support the military. He earned his BS in psychology from The University of Kansas and later earned his MBA from Baker University. Steve worked for Kansas Foundation for Medical Care for 29 years and later worked for Sunflower Health Plan and KDHE.
Steve was an active part of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives. He attended many of their activities and organized fun and unique games at family gatherings such as firecracker baseball, water balloon races and ice cream eating contests.
Steve met Jeanie Brown in 1995 and they married in 2007. Along with Jeanie, he is survived by his daughters, Stephanie (Jim) Keller, Erica (Nate) Hill, Barclay Hagen, Brianne (Casey) Cook; grandchildren, Kobe, Madelyn, Kaden, Harleigh, Mason, Cayman, Mikah, Grayson, Brogan, Kiyana and Brittyn, along with several nieces and nephews.
Steve loved history, different eras of music and working on the family farm in Aurora. Most of all, he loved Jesus and took the opportunity to share his faith with those around him. He glorified Jesus by the life he lived. Steve helped and encouraged others and made everyone feel welcome and important. His altruism will continue to have a lasting impact on the lives of countless people.
Visitation will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence on Friday, September 23 at 10 a.m. with Catholic Mass to follow. A graveside service will be held at Saint Peter's Cemetery in Aurora, Kan., on Saturday, September 24 at 11 a.m. In honor of Steve’s passion for history and helping children, donations may be sent to O’Connell Youth Ranch, 1646 N. 1320 Road, Lawrence, KS 66046 or Nicodemus National Historic Society, 611 Fifth Street, Bogue, KS 67625 or may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th St. Lawrence, KS 66044.
To post a condolence please go to warrenmcelwain.com
