Joseph Harold Stephens

Joseph Harold Stephens, age 97, passed away on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at his home in West Branch, MI. He was a lifelong resident of West Branch. Joe was born on February 6, 1920 in Grayling, MI to Joseph and Emma (Stoll) Stephens. He graduated from St. Joseph Catholic School and was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch, Knights of Columbus and American Legion Post #416. Joe retired from the State of Michigan, working in Ogemaw County, as a social worker. He also was the care taker of the Ogemaw Nature Park for 23 years. He loved to hunt and work out in his garage.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Stephens of West Branch; daughters, Donna Morris of West Branch and Donnamarie (Don) Klingler of Gaylord, MI; grandchildren, Michael Morris of West Branch, Micayla Morris of West Branch, Denisha Klingler of Grand Rapids, MI, and Denae Klingler of Gaylord, MI; brothers, Floyd (Leona) Stephens of Burton, MI and Victor (Lois) Stephens of Santa Rosa, CA. He is preceded in death by his parents, first wife Joan Stephens, son, Leonard “Boots” Stephens, step son James Russo Jr., 2 sisters and 4 brothers.

Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Monday, September 25, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a K of C Rosary at 7:00 p.m. The Celebration of Life Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Father Patrick Maher will officiate.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Hospice Compassus or St. Joseph Catholic School.

Arrangements handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com