Stephen Wesley Holcomb May 11, 1963 – April 12, 2026

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 11, 1963, to Donald and Estelle Holcomb, Stephen was the sixth of seven children and shared a special bond as a twin with his sister, Stephanie. He spent much of his childhood between Kansas City, Missouri, and Utica, Missouri, growing up with a spirited and adventurous nature. His sisters fondly remember him as a daredevil, always finding a way to stir up a little chaos. He especially cherished time spent hunting and fishing with his father, creating memories that stayed with him throughout his life.

He eventually settled in Kansas City, where he graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1981. In 1984, he met and married Donna Ritter, and together they built a family and shared many happy years raising their children. During that time, they enjoyed their daily morning coffee together, regular camping trips, and annual visits to Las Vegas, traditions that brought lasting joy and connection.

In later years, after he and Donna went their separate ways, he was fortunate to find companionship again with Estella Zahner. The two shared a strong and meaningful bond, enjoying simple pleasures together such as watching movies, visiting the casino, and spending quality time side by side.

He was an avid outdoorsman who found fulfillment working in nature. Dedicated to his craft, he pursued training and certifications to become a certified arborist. He spent nearly 20 years with the City of Shawnee Parks and Recreation Department, where his work left a lasting mark on the community, most notably along Johnson Drive, where many of the trees he planted still stand today. Later in life, he transitioned into healthcare, working at The University of Kansas Hospital, where he found deep satisfaction in helping others. He never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel welcome.

He had a love for motorcycles, a fascination with Bigfoot, and a fondness for scary movies. He adored his children and took immense pride in being their father. You could often find him outdoors, whether tending to the yard or relaxing with a beer in hand, happily bragging about his kids and grandchildren. He was a hardworking man whose greatest joy was his family.

He is survived by his loving companion, Estella Zahner; his former wife, Donna Holcomb; his children, Christopher Holcomb, Cassie Higgins (Derek), and Connor Holcomb; his stepsons, Andrew Zahner (Tara) and Brian Zahner II (Victoria); and his cherished grandchildren, Jace Holcomb, Aubree Higgins, Brian Zahner III, Royce Zahner, Graham Zahner, Vincent Zahner, and Aria Zahner. He is also survived by his siblings, Mike Holcomb (Julie), Donna Hinnen (Bud), Daniel Holcomb, and his twin sister, Stephanie Holcomb; his former father-in-law, Leroy Ritter; and his former brother-in-law, Dwayne Ritter. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Estelle Holcomb; his brothers, Earl “Butch” Holcomb and Donald Holcomb Jr.; his former mother-in-law, Dorothy Ritter; and his grandson, Andrew “AJ” Zahner.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.