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Stephen John Stombaugh
10-01-2026

Stephen Stombaugh, a beloved son, brother, uncle, godfather and friend, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, at Tampa General Hospital, Florida, lovingly surrounded by his siblings, Thomas, Rebecca and Patricia.

Born on December 24, 1960, in Sioux Falls, SD, he was the youngest son of the late Eudean and Dorothy (Boldt) Stombaugh. Steve’s education began at Cathedral Grade School, then O’Gorman High School, where he graduated in 1979. He furthered his education with a Bachelor of Science in Music from the University of South Dakota and a Master of Music degree from the University of Nebraska, Omaha. His thirst for knowledge led him to earn an Advanced Diploma in Information Technology and a Master’s Degree in Business Intelligence.

A proud veteran, Steve served in the South Dakota Army National Guard as a member of the 147th Army Band. He was a trumpet section leader and soloist, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant before being honorably discharged in 2006 after 21 years of dedicated service.

Steve’s professional career was marked by his role as a Business Intelligence Analyst and Developer, most recently with Webstaurant Store in Tampa, FL. His colleagues admired his meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Outside of work, Steve embraced life with an adventurous spirit. He was a skilled musician, playing trumpet for the Sioux Falls Municipal Band and the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra. He was also a member of Skydive Adventures in South Dakota, where he loved the thrill of skydiving. An avid runner, Steve completed numerous half and full marathons, and later in life, he delighted in playing in pool leagues. He also loved his miniature golden doodle, Ruby, who was his constant and lovable furry companion.

Steve was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa.

Steve’s passion for travel took him around the globe, where he immersed himself in diverse cultures and histories. His generous heart and zest for life left lasting impressions on all who met him. Stephen was a beacon of light to all who knew him, living a life filled with music, adventure, and zest for learning.

A committed organ donor, Steve’s legacy of generosity lives on through his final act of kindness.

Steve leaves behind a brother, Tom Stombaugh of Sioux Falls, and his sisters, Rebecca Christianson of Sioux Falls and Patricia Klenda of Salina, KS. Stephen was a treasured uncle to 13 nieces and nephews: Elizabeth (Dan) Davies, Michael Stombaugh, Bradley Stombaugh, Theresa (Nick) Hofstader, Sara (Charlie) Schoenfelder, Nathan Christianson (Estell Bartos), Rachel (Andrew) Bonnema, Eric (Britney) Christianson, Dean Klenda, Matthew (Britany) Klenda, Emily (Tyler) Farabi, Carolyn (Wesley) Jones, Patrick (Haley) Klenda. He also leaves behind 32 great nieces and nephews: Hailee, Brayden, Nicholas, Seth, Ian, Landon, Alyssa, Kaim, Karson, Aubrey, Taliah, Madelyn, Brooklyn, Rayna, Evan, Leah, Audra, Greta, Clara, Nolan, Margot, Grant C, Amelia, Bennett, Cole, Isabelle, Casper, Cameron, Jerrett, Grant J., Kinsley, Oakley, and a great- great nephew Max. He is also survived by his former wife, Marilandia Stombaugh. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Eudean Stombaugh, his grandparents: Otto and Clara (Domagala) Boldt, and Irving and Emma (Schroeder) Stombaugh, and numerous Aunts and Uncles.

His deep love for his family was evident in the joyful moments he shared with them, forever known as the “funcle”; who brought laughter and warmth.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 22 at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home from 5-6:30 with a Scripture Vigil and Rosary at 6:30. Mass OF Christian Burial to celebrate Stephen’s life will be held at 10:00 on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph, Sioux Falls, SD. Burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery with full Military Rites.

Steve’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Tampa General Hospital for their compassionate care, and to the LifeLink Team in Tampa for their support with Stephen’s organ donations. Stephen’s presence will be dearly missed, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.