CW4 Robert “Keith” Stephan, ARMY (Ret)

A Celebration of Life for CW4 Robert “Keith” Stephan, ARMY (Ret.), 80, will take place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 12:30 PM at Sykes Funeral Home. Burial will follow at KY Veterans Cemetery West, where full military honors will be rendered. The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 9, 2025, from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM and again on Tuesday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service.

Keith was born on November 15, 1944, in Cincinnati, OH, to Robert and Mavis Stephan. Keith was a 1976 graduate of Cameron University and dedicated over 30 years of service to the United States Army, completing two tours in Vietnam and Korea as a pilot of both Cobra and Huey helicopters. While stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, he earned his fixed-wing pilot license. His most cherished role was as a Chinook pilot with the 1/60 Nightstalkers. Throughout his military career, Keith received numerous distinguished awards and service medals, though he consistently attributed his achievements to the efforts of others. After retiring, he took pride in raising black Angus cattle and was honored as a Master Beef Producer. Keith was awarded the 2014 Conservation Progress Award and the 2001 Extension Award for Most Improved Beef Production. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

 In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Tedi Threatt, and son-in-law, Daryl Threatt. Keith is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Judy Seipelt Stephan; children Jay (Leilani) Ross, Tonya (George) Cunningham, Christopher (Terri) Stephan, and Tifini (Tommy) Bain; grandchildren Sean, Ashlea, Aubrea, Morgan, Cooper, Caden, Casen, Bella, and Brinli; six great-grandchildren; and sister Judy (John) Waits.

Pallbearers will be Cooper Cunningham, Caden Cunningham, Casen Cunningham, Cain Smith, Mikey Pulley, and Craig Crockarell. 

 Honorary pallbearers will be David Taylor, Ed Bevil, Cole Hedden, and the former 160th brothers, who respectfully referred to him as “Big Daddy.”

 The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice Care and Silver Angels, with special appreciation to Melanie Gibson for her unwavering support during this time.