Michael Wayne Stephens, 70, of Leasburg, passed away on, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in the safety, comfort and warmth of his home. 

On July 28, 1955, Mike was born to the union of Charles Stephens & Edith (Warren) in St. Louis, Missouri. 

Mike was united in marriage to his beloved wife Connie Rowland on May 13, 1978, in Bourbon, Missouri. 

The outdoors is where Mike loved spending most of his time. His passion for the outdoors sparked his career with the Missouri State Park Service from 1978-2020. He spent the majority of his carrier in Park Maintenance at Onondaga Cave State Park, retiring in 2011 as Park Maintenance Supervisor. After retirement he continued working at Onondaga as a seasonal employee until the end of 2020. 

Mike enjoyed reading, especially western novels. Connie and Mike shared a love for traveling which encouraged them to purchase their R.V., which they took to many places, creating lasting memories such as, Disney World, Branson, The Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans and many other state parks. Mike was a jack of all trades and enjoyed the years that he helped on the Rowland Farm. Mike's other passion that was close to his heart was assisting with coaching in the Special Olympics and supporting their goal for over 10 years. Most of all, Mike cherished the time spent with his family and friends and he will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Connie Stephens of Leasburg; two daughters, Jennifer (John) Lindsey of Fenton & Sarah Stephens of Leasburg; siblings, Kathleen (Roger) Rimkus of St. Louis, Charles D. (Cathy) Stephens of St. Louis, Paul (Lisa) Stephens of Illinois, John (Beverly) Stephens of Kansas City, Karen (Steven) Nicholson of St. Louis & Laura (Steve) Kleinhoffer of St. Louis; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends. 

A visitation will be held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory in Cuba, Missouri. A Funeral Service will take place on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. also at the Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment with a graveside service will take place at Crow Cemetery in Bourbon. 

Memorial donations are appreciated to either the Special Olympics or The American Lung Association. 

Arrangements under the compassionate care of Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory in Cuba, Missouri.