We were very sad to hear about our Friend, Stevel Ovel, who passed away. He was an extraordinary man, full of tact, diplomacy and personal culture. Rest in peace, Friend. It was a great honor for us to meet you.
Romuald Burczyk
October 18, 2021
We were very sad to hear about our Friend, Stevel Ovel, who passed away. He was an extraordinary man, full of tact, diplomacy and personal culture. Rest in peace, Friend. It was a great honor for us to meet you.
Romuald Burczyk
October 18, 2021
We were very sad to hear about the death of our Friend, Stevel Ovel. He was an extraordinary man, full of tact, diplomacy and personal culture. Rest in peace, Friend. It was a great honor for us to meet you. ????????
Z wielkim smutkiem przyjelismy informacje o smierci naszego Przyjaciela, którym byl Stevel Ovel. Byl czlowiekiem niezwyklym, pelnym taktu, dyplomacji i kultury osobistej. Spoczywaj w pokoju Przyjacielu. Bylo dla nas wielkim honorem móc Cie poznac. ????????
Romuald Burczyk
October 18, 2021
Best brother.I will never Forget our Go Kart days. And our coin collection and the one coin he always wanted a1909s VDB Penney which I gave him before he passed. Bye Steve I love you.
G. Scott Ovel
August 8, 2021
We just learned of Steve's passing. Very tragic to hear of this as He is one of the "Good Guys". Always friendly to us, outstanding leader in the community with the Scouts, Kirkwood College and more. Great athlete and adventurer in his trekking. God Bless You Susan and Families!
Kevin & Renee Kubik
August 5, 2021
Dear Sue and family,
I am so very sorry. Steve was truly one of the good guys, a true gentleman. My 2 sons were extremely fortunate to have had him in their lives during their scouting years. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you??
Anne McNulty
July 31, 2021
Dear Sue and Family, John and I are so saddened by your loss. Unfortunately we were not able to attend Steve's Memorial Service, but please know that our thoughts were with you. Steve was a truly wonderful man, who gave so much to his community and friends. He will be sorely missed by all. Marsha and John
Marsha and John Beckelman
July 31, 2021
We are so saddened to hear of Steve's passing. I grew up with Steve as we attended Grant Wood, McKinley, and almighty Washington High School. What a nice guy with so much to offer everyone. Dave hiked a mountain or two with Steve in Colorado, and he admitted that it was hard to keep up with Steve. Our community has lost a fine leader.
Martha (Walters) Booth and Dave Booth
Martha A Booth
July 31, 2021
If a "life well lived" was a competition, Steve would have surely been on the podium. I am blessed to have known the man. Condolences to Sue and family.
DAVE JOHANSON
July 30, 2021
Great guy and basketball supporter of his son Ryan! Many games we had the pleasure of associating with him during youth basketball tournaments! May God Bless he and his family!
Doug & Sue DeSmidt
July 29, 2021
Sue and family. We are so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful human being. He left his mark on many people all across the globe!
I first met Steve in the early 1990's when I was serving in the Iowa Senate and he would ask to meet with me to explain various community college policy and budget issues. He was very informed and helped a new member learn practical things about Iowa Community Colleges and they training they provided then, and today.
It was an honor to work with him over the last 20 years and because of his work our Community College system and state are in a much better place.
May he rest in peace.
Jim and Laurie Kersten, Fort Dodge
Jim and Laurie Kersten, Fort Dodge
July 29, 2021
Steve was a great person and inspired me before I even starting teaching at Kirkwood. He was a great supporter of CTE programs, which is something we have in common. He was also someone I consider a friend. His manner of pushing an idea was always gentle and encouraged collaboration. I will miss his presence in meetings.
Elizabeth McCarthy
July 29, 2021
What an absolutely perfect service for a wonderful man! May God hold each of you up as you go through this very difficult time.
Jim and Patty Powers
July 28, 2021
I had the opportunity to work with Steve at the Capitol. He cared about the staff and students at Kirkwood and spent hours looking out for their well being each day. A wonderful person and I am humbled to have worked with him. Rest in Power Steve!
Marcia L Nichols
July 28, 2021
Sending love and prayers to Sue and the entire family. I was fortunate to be at Kirkwood and engage with Steve. He was a fierce advocate for all things Kirkwood; acting with compassion, empathy and determination. So sorry to hear about his passing.
Julie Copeland
July 28, 2021
So sorry for your loss. Steve lived an incredible life and I was honored to have crossed paths with him. Being stranded in the Andes for a week, Steve’s grace and composure helped us through uncertain times, I am forever grateful.
Chad Swope
July 28, 2021
Sue and family, our family was so sorry for the loss of this wonderful, quiet man. As our son, Ben, said, "I had no idea he was involved with and did so much." We knew your family mostly through Washington since both Ben and Megan were close in age to your sons. And of course, there was Scouting. The world has suffered yet another good person to a horrible disease. Take care.
Gail Murphy
July 27, 2021
When I was a young Kirkwood employee, just starting out in my involvement with the Kirkwood Faculty Association, I met Steve. I remember thinking how much I wanted to be like Steve, someone who gave so much to Kirkwood and its students, someone who lived life passionately and to the fullest, someone who was so smart and perceptive.
I never told him that. We would meet on trips to the Capitol, he would come to meetings and talk to us, and I would trade conversation with him at board meetings with a kind of hero worship. He set a high benchmark.
I know how much you all must miss him, and I am so sorry for your loss. He was a man who was greater than the sum of his parts. The world is much diminished for his passing.
Catherine Schaff-Stump
July 27, 2021
Sue & family, it is with great sadness that I learned of Steve's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your whole extended family. It was my honor and privilege to work side-by-side with Steve on many projects at Kirkwood. I always teased him about being a "walking billboard" for Kirkwood and all Iowa community colleges, and I meant it the most positive way. But beyond our working relationship, I considered Steve a friend. We lunched together often. I loved his stories about the "children" he was so proud of, his wonderful wife that he cherished and all of their experiences (and who I got to know better when she joined the Kirkwood staff), his mountain climbing adventures and how the next one would be his last (heard that one about half a dozen times). He always showed genuine interest in my stories and experiences. He was a kind, caring, loving individual. And he had a great sense of humor! He will be missed, but also remembered.
Joe Taylor
July 27, 2021
Mrs. Ovel, Chad, Ryan and family - I was very sad to learn of your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts as you navigate through this very challenging time.
Liz Ehrhart
July 27, 2021
So extremely sad to hear about Steve. He was so kind and personable. As busy as he was, he never hesitated to take a moment to visit whenever I saw him in the halls at Kirkwood. He always asked about our student veterans and offered help where needed. My deepest, heartfelt sympathy. God bless Susan and the family. Steve will be missed by all those lives he touched just by having the privilege knowing him.
Vicki Terronez
July 27, 2021
Ovel family, I am so sorry for your loss. He had a huge impact at Kirkwood. I always enjoyed hearing about his climbing experiences. I am praying for all of you.
Shelley Schultz
July 27, 2021
From all of us at the Indian Creek Nature Center: Steve’s spirit lives on in the beauty of sunrises and sunsets, in the wind whispering through the trees, and in early morning birdsong. With gratitude we remember Steve’s and Susan’s faithful support for ICNC, beginning in the early days of the Center’s founding in the 1970s. We join together to celebrate Steve’s rich life, and for the incredible legacy he leaves behind for our community, state and world. Susan, may you and your family find peace, comfort and even joy in our natural world, where Steve felt so at home.
Nancy Lackner
July 27, 2021
Sue, Ryan and family—-
I am so very sorry for your loss of Steve—- a good, humble man who taught us how to live and how to die. Hold those good memories close to your hearts. Praying for you, thinking of you.
Carol Olson
July 27, 2021
Sue, Ryan, and Chad - my heartfelt condolences on your loss. I will always have fond memories of Steve and your entire family from our childhood tennis days. You are all in our thoughts.
Kevin O'Donnell
July 26, 2021
Steve was a truly good and decent man, a wonderful husband and father, and a model citizen. What a wonderful legacy of accomplishment and testament to the human spirit he leaves us! I am saddened by his passing, but I rejoice that I had the opportunity to know him, work with him, and experience his goodness. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Sue, and your family. May we all meet merrily in heaven!
Tom Tauke
July 26, 2021
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Steve. What a well spent life! We had the pleasure of working with him in scouts for many years. We were Pack 6 at First Congregational for quite a few years. His passing is a loss to the entire community.
James C and Traci Maxted
July 26, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and those who knew and loved him. His spirit of service and commitment to a strong community will serve as a model for all of us.
Jeannette Archer-Simons - Fellow Rotarian
Executive Director, Area Substance Abuse Council, Inc. (ASAC)
Jeannette Archer-Simons
July 26, 2021
Steve and I worked for the Community Colleges of Iowa for the last 25 years. I always had the highest respect for him and his devotion to the Community Colleges in Iowa and especially the Kirkwood Community College that he worked so hard for. He will be sorely missed for the community colleges work force development. My condolences to Steve's wife and children and grandchildren. My God bless all of you at this time of sadness and loss.
Moudy Nabulsi, Chairman of the Board at Southeastern Community College. and member of the Iowa Association of Commuity College Board
July 26, 2021
Steve will be truly missed by so many. I first met Steve almost 30 years ago in his role at Kirkwood. Steve was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate in his advocacy for Kirkwood. I could always trust Steve to provide in-depth knowledge that was fair and accurate. Steve gave back to this community in so many ways, and was a role model for many....including me. I hope you will find some comfort in knowing that "death is the end of a lifetime, not the end of a relationship." Steve will be with you, and will continue to influence your lives, and ours, forever.
All our thoughts and prayers--Brad and Jade Hart
Brad Hart
July 26, 2021
We are so sorry to miss Steve’s life celebration as we are out of town, but our heartfelt thoughts will be with you and your family, Sue. He was truly one of a kind and will be very much missed. With love, Lee & Jay
Lee & Jay Clancey
July 26, 2021
I was saddened to learn of Steve's death. I've know him for over 40 years through his help at the Indian Creek Nature Center, Boy Scouts, and around and about town. He helped make ours a better world and I appreciate him.
Rich Patterson
Rich A Patterson
July 26, 2021
I did see him race a Go kart @ 140 mph
G. Scott Ovel
July 26, 2021
Sue and family, our heartfelt sympathy and love to you for the loss of a wonderful man and friend. Burl and I both knew Steve since grade school and he was my first boyfriend! Over the years we have kept in touch and when I learned of his death, I had a flood of wonderful memories. Burl and Steve spent many Scouting experiences together. He was a special man who was always willing to listen and help and we are so sad for all of you. Our prayers are with you and Steve. Sandi Schaffer Sealls and Burl Sealls.
Burl and Sandi Schaffer Sealls
July 25, 2021
Sue and family - I was so saddened to read about Steve this morning. My prayers for all of you during this most difficult time. Steve was a wonderful role model for so many people in so many ways and I know his memory and kind deeds will live and inspire many for years to come.... I will continue to pray and keep you all in my thoughts and prayers
Pam Mann
July 25, 2021
Sue, Ryan and family—-
I am so very sorry for your loss of Steve—- a good, humble man who taught us how to live and how to die. Hold those good memories close to your hearts. Praying for you, thinking of you.
Carol Olson
July 25, 2021
Sue, Ryan and families,
Our heartfelt condolences. Steve remains one of the smartest and classiest examples to follow in life. May his memory be a constant blessing in your lives going forward.
Steve & Megan Ginsberg family
July 25, 2021
Susan and family,
My deepest condolences on the passing of Steve. Our community is a better place because of Steve and your choices. He definitely lived life to the fullest. Sending prayers.
Dr. Mona McCalley-Whitters
July 25, 2021
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm remembering our times together going to races to watch Steve race and the two guys looking over the city to see where Interstate 380 would be located. Take care.
Janet Kvach
July 24, 2021
My deepest condolences, Sue, Chad, and Ryan. I felt privileged and honored to be able to work with and next to Steve through many projects and years at Kirkwood. Although we did not keep in touch after retirement, my heart is heavy to lose such a kind, empathetic, yet brilliant man much too soon. I am unable to attend the service as I now reside in Florida, but will be tuning in on Wednesday.
Becki deNeui-Lynch
July 24, 2021
Sounds like a life well lived and a man who touched others. Remember that in your sadness, grieve, and may he always be in your heart.
Mark Weimer
July 24, 2021
Ovel Family, on behalf of the Naber family, please except our deepest sympathies for the loss of Steve. He was a great guy, always with a welcomed smile. He will be missed…
Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Craig Naber
Craig Naber
July 24, 2021
Our condolences for your loss. Our prayers and sympathy to your family.
May all the wonderful memories help you through this difficult time.
Wayne and Judy Kinney
July 24, 2021
We are so saddened to read this obituary. What a remarkable husband and father..friend . We have been following his journey on Caring Bridge website and praying for him on his journey. He has given so much strength to other by his postings. What a beautiful tribute to a life well lived...you will remain in our prayers ! Sue., especially thinking of you these days. You have been a rock for him on this journey.
He will live on in so many hearts that knew him....he will never be forgotten.
Sally and Gene Kopecky
July 24, 2021
Sue, Chad and Ryan
Please accept my condolences on your loss. It is never easy losing someone you love. Hold on to those memories, continue to hear his voice and don’t ever stop talking to him. He is with you always. I hope that comfort and peace come to you. I know that he will truly be missed. He’s with you always..prayers for your hearts to heal.
You are in my prayers and thoughts.
May God bless all of you.
Jim Voss
James Voss
July 24, 2021
I met Steve while I served in the Iowa Legislature. He was an honest effective lobbyist and always fun to work with. We need more people and public servants like Steve.
Tom Fiegen
July 24, 2021
Susan and family ,Scott and family and Barb and family
Jim and I send our condolences to all.We will remember Steve’s magical smile. After seeing Steve we always walked away smiling thinking the world is a better place because of Steve. May God watch over everyone esp. at this time.
Jim and Nance Wagner
Nancy wagner
July 24, 2021
Steve’s contributions to the Cedar Rapids community, the state, and especially all he did for education truly were remarkable and will always be remembered. And Steve’s character and integrity set him apart. We will miss him. Our deepest sympathies to Susan, Chad, Ryan, and their families.
Ron And Sue Olson
July 23, 2021
The Best Brother ever....I miss him dearly.
G. Scott Ovel
July 23, 2021
Most fantastic guy I ever got to ‘pit crew’ for, and with Sue, our deepest friends at Iowa State. Sincere condolences to Sue and all the Ovel’s.
Chris & Marsha Kellogg
July 23, 2021
Wonderful man. Outstanding political strategist! Great community contributor.
He will be missed.
Tom Micek
July 23, 2021
My condolence to all the family for your loss. This is very heartbreaking news. God bless you all.
Jack Budde
July 23, 2021