Stephen Kalkbrenner

STEPHEN KALKBRENNER

Littleton

Stephen G. Kalkbrenner, 68, of Littleton, died Saturday, Aug. 12, 2017, at his home in Littleton.

Stephen was born on Sept. 3, 1948, in Wall, S.D., the son of Louis and Eunice (Fuller) Kalkbrenner. He graduated from Jesup High School and later received a bachelor's degree in political science from Iowa State University. He also studied at the University of Northern Iowa, pursuing a master's degree in public policy. On Oct. 2, 1976, he married Ruth Sandra McKeen at Jubilee Church in Jesup. They made their home in Oelwein, later moving to Littleton in 1985.

He worked as a machinist for many years throughout the country. After working at John Deere for 17 years, he retired in 2016.

He enjoyed working with his hands and his mind. Wood carving, inventing things and writing were his favorite activities.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth, of Littleton; four children, Aaron (Abby) Kalkbrenner of Waterloo, Christopher "Kit" (Nicole) Kalkbrenner of Vinton, Anna Kalkbrenner of Littleton and Gabriel (Alissa) Kalkbrenner of Dubuque; two grandchildren; two sisters, Brandi Cole of Walker, Minn., and Mary Lehr of Waterloo; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Carol Ballard; and a brother, Vernon Kalkbrenner.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16, at the Littleton & Chattem Historical Society, 601 State St., Littleton. A military honors service will be held at 6 p.m.

To leave an online condolence, please go to www.reifffuneralhome.com under obituaries.