Robert Stephens

Robert E. Stephens, 63, of Paola passed away June 24, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family and friends after succumbing to his courageous battle with cancer for the last two years. A visitation will be held from 6:00 " 8:00 p.m., Sunday, June 27th at Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home. Cremation to follow. Robert was born October 1, 1946 in Paola to Mervin L. Sr. and Viola M, Hayen Stephens. He attended Paola High School, he went to work at Taylor Forge Engineering in Paola where he worked for 42 years and was a very active member of the Local #84 Boilermakers Union. He was united in marriage to Ellen Watkins Stephens on May 19, 1967 in Paola; they went on to become the parents of two children. He was an active member of the Masonic Lodge #131 of the Kansas Free Masons for 23 years and a member of White Tails Unlimited. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, camping, watching tv game shows and was an avid Chiefs fan. His biggest joy, though, was being a grandfather to his two beautiful grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents; grandmother, Luewella Sullivan Stephens; grandfather, Walter Stephens; and a brother, Lloyd G. Stephens. He is survived by his wife, Ellen, of the home; two sons, Timothy L. Stephens and Matthew R. and his wife Raechel Stephens who was his favorite daughter in-law, two grandchildren, Malorie and Cooper Stephens; three brothers, Junior Stephens of Olathe, KS, Floyd Stephens of Osawatomie, KS, and Donny Stephens of Paola, KS; four sisters, Edna Maine of Paola, Carolyn Hughes of Osawatomie, Luella Hughes of Fontana, and Barbara Hutchison of Paola, and many nieces and nephews. Robert loved his family very much and especially enjoyed having big gatherings with his family and close friends whenever an occasion arose. He was a jokester and loved to have a good time. He also was a supporter of the Kansas Lottery, playing keno, powerball, and just buying lottery tickets throughout the years. He contributed greatly to many lives and will be greatly missed by all.