Steven Lynn Eklund, 62, passed away on October 22, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Steve was born on October 27, 1963, in Kansas City, Missouri, to David and Rosene Eklund. He attended Park Hill High School before continuing his education at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri, where he earned his degree in advertising and broadcasting. Steve especially enjoyed his time working with the university’s radio program and was a proud member of the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity.

A blind date would change the course of Steve’s life when he met his loving wife, Jennifer. The two were married on February 12, 1994 and together were blessed with three children.

Steve spent many years working for Citi Bank before later becoming a driver for PepsiCo. No matter where he worked or where life took him, Steve had a remarkable ability to make friends. His outgoing personality and easygoing nature earned him several beloved nicknames over the years, including “Cat,” “Cat Daddy,” and “CD.” He seemed to know someone everywhere he went—so much so that his family often joked he would have made the perfect employee for a missing persons department.

Steve enjoyed a little bit of everything—music, food, and sports. His enthusiasm for sports was especially evident when several of his favorite teams played on the same day; Steve would make every effort to change outfits, so each team received the proper support. He faithfully followed college sports and was a fan of both dirt-track and NASCAR racing. His love of baseball also led him to spend 30+ years umpiring high school games.

Above all else, Steve treasured his family. Some of his happiest memories came from time spent together, including frequent trips to Alys Beach and Illinois. He loved being surrounded by the people closest to him and had a way of turning even ordinary moments into something memorable.

Those who knew Steve will remember his quick wit, funny sense of humor, and ability to bring a smile to the faces of those around him.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, David and Rosene Eklund.

He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife, Jennifer; children, Madison (Jackson) Jones, Reid Eklund, and Mackenzie Eklund (fiancé, Blaine Truman); granddaughter, Emerson; brother, Troy Eklund; as well as many extended family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 with visitation beginning at 2:00pm, followed by the funeral service at 3:00pm. Steve will be laid to rest at terrace Park Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Steve’s honor.