Stephen Riley Assel

Stephen Riley Assel, 70, of Kearney, Missouri, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023, at Liberty Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Jesse Allen Pierce; mother, Phyllis Jean Negrini; and fathers, David Assel and Andrew Negrini.

Stephen is survived by his wife of 50 years, Peggy Sue Assel, of the home; daughter, Donna Askren, of the home; grandson, Joshua Oliver Pierce (Jacqueline), of Knob Noster, Missouri; mother, June Assel, of Holt, Missouri; siblings, Michael Assel (Sharon), of Falcon, Missouri, Judy Canaday (Richard), of Lathrop, Missouri, William Assel (Cheryl), of Cameron, Missouri, Daniel Assel (Charla), of Holt, Missouri, Becky Elder (Matthew), of Kansas City, Missouri, and Paul Negrini (Shunta), of Lufkin, Texas; and three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Stephen was a firefighter in Galveston, Texas, for 10 years. He retired from the IUOE #101 after 20 years.

Stephen was a loving husband, father, friend, mentor, and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. He was loved by everyone and will be greatly missed.

Stephen’s celebration of life and birthday party will be May 18, 2024, at the VFW Hall in Kearney, Missouri. The time will be announced closer to the event.

Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Kearney.