Scott Allan Stephens, United States Veteran, beloved husband, son, father, uncle, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, in the loving presence of his family at the Comfort House in Pella, IA. Born on April 12, 1971, in Puyallup, Washington, Scott graced the world with his spirit, humor, and wisdom for 55 memorable years.

The cherished son of Tim and Valerie Stephens, Scott grew up in Washington, where he cultivated a love for the great outdoors. From an early age, Scott displayed an impressive intellect and a knack for problem-solving, earning him the affectionate nickname “Mr. Google” among his family and friends.

Scott’s life was greatly shaped by his service to his country. He enlisted in the Army in August 1990 and served with distinction as an 11B infantryman and a M203 Gunner, earning recognition for his expert sharpshooter skills. Although his military career was cut short by a severe accident, Scott’s resilience and determination saw him through a lengthy recovery and an honorable discharge in 1992. His unwavering patriotism and commitment to freedom remained a guiding force throughout his life.

His relentless curiosity and passion for learning led him to pursue a career in mechanical engineering, designing equipment for paving. Scott’s professional journey was marked by dedication and excellence while owning his own business, and culminating in his role at Weiler in Knoxville, IA, where he worked until retirement in September 2024 due to health challenges.

In April 2019, Scott and Melissa’s love story began, and they were married on April 3, 2023, at the same place they first met—North Overlook in Pella. Their union was a testament to the power of love and partnership, as they navigated life’s joys and challenges together. Scott adored Melissa and delighted in making her feel cherished and loved. Their favorite time of the year together was Christmas.

Scott’s adventurous spirit found expression in his many hobbies, including fishing on the Hoh River in Washington, hunting with his loyal dog, Dodger, music, singing, and martial arts. He loved football and was a die-hard Seattle Seahawks fan. After Scott received a kidney transplant from his best friend Aaron, he and Melissa embraced a healthy lifestyle and spent hours together at the gym. As a family, Scott, Melissa, and the kids enjoyed fishing on their boat, golfing, and traveling. He loved his loyal Basenjis, Cairo and Congo, and after retirement, spent countless hours with them in his chair.

Known for his quick wit and great storytelling, Scott brought laughter and joy to all who knew him. His ability to teach and inspire others was unparalleled, whether he was sharing his engineering expertise or his culinary skills. Scott’s calm demeanor and protective nature ensured that everyone felt safe and valued in his presence.

Scott leaves behind his devoted wife, Melissa Stephens, and his parents Tim and Valerie Stephens, as well as daughters Amanda Stephens of Portland, OR and Megan Stephens of North Bend, WA, and his stepchildren Joshua Van Gorp and his fiancé Summer Brand of Pella, Allison (Van Gorp) and her husband Alex Thomas of West Des Moines, Jonathan Van Gorp, and Julianne Van Gorp of Pella, his sister Alyssa Stephens-Bishop of Puyallup, WA and her daughters Emily and Katie, his parents-in-law Marvin and Lynda Slings of Sully, sister in-law Melynda Van Zee, and her husband, Brian of Huxley, IA and brother-in-law Daniel Slings his wife Karen of Branson, MO, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Scott is preceded in death by all his paternal and maternal grandparents and his uncle James Stephens.

Scott’s family lovingly remembers him as a fighter who faced life’s challenges with grace and courage. His journey was marked by resilience and a deep love for his family, especially Melissa, his steadfast partner through all life’s ups and downs. Team 43, as they fondly called themselves, was a testament to the power of their love, commitment, and unwavering support for one another.

Scott Allan Stephens will forever be remembered for his joyous spirit, his love of life, and the profound impact he had on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love, humor and wisdom will continue to be an inspiration.

In honoring Scott’s memory, donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to his wife and children, who will create a lasting tribute to his life and legacy.