Robert Merle Stephens, 74, of Wapello, passed away Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at the Grandview Cemetery. A memorial has been established at the funeral home in Robert’s name. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sandhfuneralservices.com.   Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral & Cremation Services of Wapello is caring for Robert’s arrangements and his family.

Robert was born December 11, 1948 in Burlington, Iowa, the son of Adrian and Betty (Johnson) Stephens. He graduated from Louisa-Muscatine High School. Robert married Deanna Cox and the couple later divorced.

Robert worked for GPC for 38 years until his retirement. He enjoyed NASCAR races, fishing, taking trips down gravel roads to look for animals and eating at Burger King. He especially enjoyed time spent with family, particularly his grandchildren.

He will be deeply missed by his son, Greg (Robin) Stephens of Letts; grandchildren: Emily Stephens, Skyler Stephens, Megan Lamb and Maddy Miller; great-grandchildren: Harper Lamb, Cooper Lamb, Cheyenne Hoeft, Izzy Hoeft and Nova Miller; siblings: Pam (Chuck) Fountain of Des Moines; Paul (Beth) Stephens of Wapello; Tim Stephens of Wapello; Gary (Sue) Stephens of Grandview; Randy Stephens of Burlington; and Bill (Marci) Stephens of Muscatine; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Russ Stephens.