Stephen E. Lauer, age 65, passed away at his home on November 21, 2023, following years of battling poor health, depression and pain.
He was born in Alliance, Nebraska on August 24, 1958, to Francis and Joyce Lauer.
Stephen left high school in 1976 (he would later obtain his G.E.D.), to join the United States Navy, to help provide for his mom and sisters. He served three years aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway as a supply specialist. He was very proud of his military service and proud to be a veteran. He was honorably discharged from active duty July 1979 and returned to Alliance where he worked at Hempel’s Service Station, then several years for Service Master and later for Alliance Times-Herald.
When he could no longer work due to health issues, he passed his time working in his yard, tinkering in his garage, watching old war movies or reading books. He also enjoyed riding his bike around town, often with his dog, Shags, riding along in a basket.
Stephen was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. He is survived by his sisters, Natalie (Dale) Collins, Laura Simpson, Valerie (Joel) Frank, and Jennifer (Bob) Bragg; nieces and nephews, Matthew, Jacob and Devan Collins; Jessica Frank Heil and Joshua Frank; Zachary and Alex Simpson and Kristina Simpson Joplin; and Rachel Bragg. He was also very proud of his five great-nephews and four great-nieces.
A graveside memorial service will be held May 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance, Nebraska, where Stephen will be laid to rest. Memorials may be sent in care of the family to 1612 Emerson Ave, Alliance NE 69301. Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.