John R. Steppan, 95

Originally from Austria, John R. Steppan lived the American dream of succeeding in school, serving his country and becoming a success.
The Lawrence resident who owned and successfully ran Inwood-based InterCounty Building Materials died on Jan. 24, at 95.
Born on Feb. 2, 1919 to Edward and Karoline Steppan, the family emigrated to the U.S. eight years later.
An honors graduate of Hempstead High School, Steppan served in the U.S. Army in Europe and Africa from 1941 to 1945 during World War II.
Steppan’s family said he was proud of his service time as a young man, as it shaped his life and character as an adult. He attended all of the Third Ordinance’s reunions. His unit in the army.

An active member of the Lutheran Church of the Incarnation in Cedarhurst, Steppan served on his church’s council and helped with the maintenance of the building.
In his free time, he enjoyed dancing, house projects, jewelry making, reading, tennis and woodworking, he family said. “We were married 53 years,” said his wife, Rose. “We stayed together. It worked out very nicely.”
Steppan is survived by his wife, Rose; his children: James, David and Claire; and his six grandchildren: Carla, Julia, Jamie, Ruth, Samuel and Elise.
A viewing was held at Perry Funeral Home in Lynbrook on Jan. 27. Funeral services were held at the Lutheran Church of the Incarnation on Jan. 28.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Lutheran Church of the Incarnation at 411 Bayview Ave. in Cedarhurst. Rev. Mary L. Chang is the pastor.