Stephen "Steve" L. Smith

Stephen ‘Steve’ Smith, 61, peacefully passed away on July, 13, 2023.  He was at home with his wife, daughter and son by his side.  He was born February 8, 1962, in Missouri, to the late William E. Smith and Ilene Porter Smith.  Steve grew up in the Des Moines, Iowa area and graduated with Johnston High School’s class of 1980.  He attended Central College and Iowa State University before graduating from University of Iowa with a political science degree.  He commissioned into the Army as a field artillery officer.
 
Steve married his best friend, Lisa Clarkson, in 1986 and they traveled the world together.  During those travels, they returned from overseas with the most precious souvenirs imaginable: daughter, Sarah, and son, Joshua.
 
The Army sent Steve to many exciting places in the United States (SC, AZ, WA, OK, KS) and abroad (Germany, Kuwait, Iraq, Japan). He was a recipient of the Bronze Star. The relationships he formed in the military are long-lasting, cherished friendships.  After leaving active duty, Steve worked in many roles for Temple Inland and transitioned to International Paper as a project manager.  He enjoyed the travel involved in these roles.  The greatest gift of his 27 years the corrugated industry, as a self-proclaimed ‘professional boxer’, were the incredible and special friendships he formed.
 
Steve’s passion for international travel took him near and far: Canada with Josh, Morocco to visit Sarah, Portugal to sample port, and Israel for its religious and historical significance for him. He also loved kayaking, RV trips, good peated Scotch and bird watching.  He cheered for the Iowa Hawkeyes with his brother, Brian, and for the St. Louis Cardinals and Blues.
 
Steve had many talents, falling asleep 5 minutes into a history documentary, looking so dapper in his brimmed hats, and photo bombing. He used his humor and wit freely and almost always at appropriate times. He also shared his many gifts.  He was open, curious, humble, compassionate and generous.  Steve helped many simply by being there for them.  It didn’t matter if it was family, friend or future friend, Steve listened and helped where he could.
 
Steve is survived by his wife, Lisa; children, Sarah Smith and Joshua Smith; sister Brenda (Mark) Vannausdle; brother Brian Smith; nephews and nieces.  He is a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. He was enriched by the sermons, classes, support groups and deep theological conversations and friendships there.
 
A viewing will be held on Friday, July 21, 2023 from 4-7 PM at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032.  The funeral service will be held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260, on Saturday, July 22, at 1 PM.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s UMC for United Methodist Committee On Relief (UMCOR in memo line).