John C. Stepp

John C. Stepp, 92, of Fond du Lac, died Monday, September 19, 2016, at his home.He was born on April 29, 1924, in Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, a son of Edwin L. and Rena L. Ames Stepp. John was a graduate of West Bethlehem High School. After high school, he was a coal miner at Bethlehem Steel Co., Marianna Mine #58.In 1942, John enlisted with the United States Navy serving as an E5 Aviation Cadet for a few months. He then served with the Combat Unit Battalion 18, Amphibious, until 1945. In September of 1946, he continued serving with the navy for five more years. In 1951, he joined the Reserves 9-222 out of Oshkosh. He retired in 1978 with over 36 years of service.On January 31, 1947, he married Birdelle Cora Lieflander in Newport, Rhode Island. She preceded him in death on April 22, 2003.John was a foreman with Combination Door Company from 1951-1988. He was a member of the American Legion Trier Puddy Post 75 for over 50 years, Fond du Lac Lodge #140 F & A M, currently Lodge #26. He was a long time member of Church of Peace, United Church of Christ.He is survived by two sons: James H. (Diane) Stepp of Fond du Lac and Rev. Stephen O. (Jean) Stepp of Lowden, Iowa; seven grandchildren: Alexander, Nathaniel, Christopher, Johnathan, Anthony, Jessica, and Francine; four great-grandsons: Elijah, Xavier, Gabriel, and Sam; and a brother, Kay (Caroline) Stepp of Scenerey Hill, Pennsylvania.He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Birdelle; three sons: John, Mark, and Paul; a daughter, Kathy; and three brothers: Harry, Lee, and Robert.VISITATION: The visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, September 23, 2016, at Kurki-Mach Funeral Chapel & Crematory, 31 East Division Street, Fond du Lac. A masonic memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m. The family will receive friends and relatives on Saturday from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Church of Peace, 158 South Military Road, Fond du Lac.SERVICE: A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 24, 2016, at Church of Peace with Rev. Jennifer Dawson officiating.Inurnment will be in Estabrooks Cemetery with military rites conducted by the American Legion Trier Puddy Post 75.

John C. Stepp

April 29, 1924 - September 19, 2016