Stephanie Rene Malter, age 55, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 5 in her childhood home in Hiawatha, KS.

Stephanie was one of four children born to George “Bud” and Arlene Moore Malter in Wichita, KS January 23, 1964. Stephanie graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1982 and has been a constant presence in the community.

She was devoted to her work of caring for people from young to old. When not taking care of others, Stephanie enjoyed reading, writing poetry, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. By her being a caregiver, even ‘off duty’ when you would meet her about town, Steph was always concerned about what was going on with you and your family. A wonderful quality she had was she could always make you smile or laugh, and usually was about her!

Stephanie is survived by her mother, Arlene Malter; her siblings, Greg Malter and Michelle Witham; children, Clarissa (Bobby) Ross, all of Hiawatha, KS; Jaedy (Chandler) Robidoux of Kansas CIty, MO; Brandi (Cody) Palmer of Seneca, KS; Chavis (Ciara) Nioce of Horton, KS; Shayli Nioce of Lawrence, KS. Grandchildren Alex Ross, Vada Ross, Noah Palmer, Brogan Palmer, and baby Palmer on the way, Kai Nioce, Dax Nioce, Maddox Earp; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Bud; her sister, Missy Newell.

A Celebration of Stephanie’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 12, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha, with Shane Spangler officiating.

The family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 Thursday evening at the funeral home.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com