TOPEKA — Gerard (Jerry) LaVerne Stever, 85, passed away peacefully March 18, 2020. The oldest of seven children, he was born Dec. 5, 1934 to Ivol and Alma Stever in Nebraska City, Neb. He graduated from Nebraska City High School in 1953 and achieved rank of Eagle Scout from Troop 345 also in 1953. Jerry attended the University of Nebraska and was a member of Beta Theta Pi. He married Mary Ann Thiesfeld on Feb. 11, 1956.

Surviving are his children, Julie (late Bob) Peter, Ellinwood; Brian (Maria) Stever, Topeka; Greg (Julie) Stever, McPherson; and Lisa Stever, Topeka; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Mary Lou (Troy) Lyon, Sandy (Larry) Otto, Chip (Deb) Stever, and Jim (Kathy) Stever. He was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years; and brothers Larry and Tom.

Jerry worked for Meadow Gold Dairy, selling products house to house in Nebraska City, later transferring to Columbus, Neb. where he worked for Beatrice Foods for 22 years before retiring. After retiring, he was fortunate to be successful working at Montgomery Wards, where he was recognized as top salesman for seven years and enjoyed several trips with his wife Mary Ann before retiring after 20 years.

For 10 years he volunteered at the Topeka Literacy Council, taking great pride in helping several students achieve their goals. He was awarded the 2010 Volunteer of the Year Education Award with the United Way, for freely giving his time, commitment, and service to others.

He served in the Nebraska National Guard for 12 years achieving rank of Sergeant 1st class.

Jerry enjoyed everything outdoors; fishing, camping, and hunting. He and Mary Ann enjoyed following Washburn Ichabod’s football and basketball teams, meeting many friends while working the ticket booth. He was a true role model to all as his love for life never changed even with the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Jerry’s strong faith in God helped him through this struggle. Memorial contributions may be made to Topeka Literacy Council, Elara Caring Hospice, Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library Foundation; Red Carpet Services, or MS Society c/o Parker-Price Funeral Home, 245 NW Independence, Topeka, KS 66608. Due to COVID-19 concerns, Jerry’s family invites you to enjoy the memorial tribute honoring their father at the Parker-Price Funeral Home website. To read the full obituary, view memorial tribute video or leave a message for Jerry’s family, visit www.ParkerPriceFH.com.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Parker Price Chapel

245 NW Independence

Topeka, KS 66608

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, March 29, 2020