Stephen Pender

Stephen Pender, age 66, passed away at home October 1, 2016. In the current political climate, he thought it was time to move to higher ground. Heaven, to be exact.

Stephen was born to Arthur and Jeane Pender in Des Moines, Iowa, on February 14, 1950. Stephen was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Stephen graduated from North High School in 1968 and later attended Northwest Missouri State College. Stephen worked at Kemin Industries from 1980 to 2002, as a dry product mixer. After retiring from Kemin, Stephen work as a security guard at NPI and later as a direct care professional for children with special needs.

Stephen was a lifelong learner, lover of all things historical, and was the family genealogist (traveling to many states to research the family tree). In later life, Stephen connected with family and friends via Facebook and Pinterest. Stephen never lost a game of trivial pursuit. If it was newsworthy, he knew about it. Stephen had a wonderful sense of humor. If you had to wonder if you have ever met Stephen, then you hadn’t. Stephen loved the Kansas City Chiefs; other sports, not so much. (Especially NASCAR, “Oh look it’s another left turn.”)

Stephen’s purpose in life was helping others; without concern for himself. If you needed money, he gave it. If you needed a ride, he said, “When?” In later years, he finally wised up and sold his pick-up truck and never had to help another friend or relative move. His favorite activity every year was to go to his Uncle Rich’s lake house in Montezuma for the annual family get together and the boat ride (which he was able to do just 6 days prior to his death). Family meant everything to Stephen and his absence is unmeasurable. He said his life’s goal was to help others and bring people together. Well done good and faithful servant.

Stephen was preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his brother Larry Pender (Nell), sister Mary Meyers (Duane), and brother Jim Pender (Michelle). In addition, he is also survived by many nieces and nephews he adored to no end.

A celebration of life will be held at Cornerstone Church, 849 S. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny, IA 50023 on Sunday, October 9, 2016 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Please come and share a story. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Kiwanis Miracle League or the American Diabetes Association. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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