Steven Louis Kempfer

Steven Kempfer Sr., was born February 13, 1955 in St. Louis, Missouri and passed away on April 19, 2026 in Snowflake, Arizona.

Steven will be remembered for his humor, his constant smile, and his strong, stubborn spirit. He had a way of bringing laughter into any room and was known for his quick wit and larger-than-life personality. He lived life in his own way and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Steven spent many years working as a bouncer at Bill's Bar in Show Low, Arizona, where he was known for his strong presence and steady personality. After the bar burned down, he continued his work in security at RT'S Black Bull, where he worked for over 10 years until his health no longer allowed him to continue. His coworkers and patrons remember him as dependable, fair, and someone who always carried himself with respect.

He is preceded in death by his son, Jeff Kempfer; his Ex-Wife/Best Friend Cynthia Kempfer; his mother, Bonnie Kempfer; and Carmelita Kempfer; his father, Charles Kempfer; his sisters, Linda Marguerita and Rita Morningstar; and his grandson, Dravon Hutton.

He is survived by his son, Steven Kempfer Jr., and his daughter, Rebecca Kempfer. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Logan Kempfer, Brendon Bemis, Korben Bemis, Ashton Teel, Jesse Kempfer, Tobyn Teel, and Laralynn Kempfer. He is also survived by his brothers, Chuck Kempfer and Rusty Kempfer; his sisters, Betty Dallas, Lillian Ornelas, and Peggy Batad; as well as many nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.

Family Memories

Steven's siblings remember him not only as a brother, but as a lifelong source of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable stories.

When they were young, Steven and his sister spent much of their time together skateboarding, riding bikes, playing tetherball, and creating their own adventures. One of their most memorable childhood projects was building a fort in an empty field across the street. With nothing to build on above ground, they decided to dig instead. The field would fill with California poppies, blending into their secret entrance. They dug about five feet down, carving out a space nearly eight feet long, complete with steps leading in and small cubbies for their "supplies." An old van seat became their couch, and the underground fort became their own hidden world-a place they could disappear into for hours.

Steven's brothers also remember life growing up in Rialto, California with their father. One memory includes Steven, at only about 7 or 8 years old, wanting to join them on the roof while they were cleaning water cooler filters. After much begging, their father finally allowed him up the ladder-but once Steven reached the top and looked down, he immediately froze and lay face down with arms and legs spread out in fear. His siblings had to call their father to come get him down.

Another memory comes from a camping trip at Sequoia National Park. One night, Steven's brothers were in a tent while Steven wanted to sleep on a picnic table like their father. In the middle of the night, Steven somehow ended up inside their zipped-up tent. When they woke up confused about how he got in, Steven simply said he had heard a bear and left their father sleeping outside on the picnic table.

His family also remembers: that Steve always had something to smile about - not just in the good times, but also in the difficult times.

His children have so many memories as well but the number one they will always remember is the love he had for his family.

Steven's life will be remembered through the laughter he shared, the stories he created, his dedication to his work, and the love he had for his family. Though he is gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Celebration of Life: TBA