Stephen Lee Fife

Stephen Lee Fife, 72, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, July 17, 2026, after a long and courageous journey through declining health following his battle with cancer and later Alzheimer's disease.

Steve was born on April 4, 1954, in Winterset, Iowa, to Eldon and Pauline Fife. He graduated from Glenwood High School and began his career as a custodian for the Council Bluffs Community School District, where his father also worked. A few years later, Steve's career took him to Virginia, where he worked as a Fingerprint Technician for the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Washington, D.C.

While living in Virginia, Steve met the love of his life, Julie, who was also originally from Iowa. The two were united in marriage and shared 46 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. They eventually returned to Iowa and made their home in Des Moines, where Steve faithfully served the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation for 25 years before retiring.

Steve's greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his sons, teaching them countless skills and life lessons through the years. Whether he was restoring an old car, fixing up a truck, or simply tinkering in the garage, Steve was happiest with a project to work on and someone nearby to share it with.

Retirement brought Steve one of his greatest blessings with his grandchildren. He cherished picking them up from school, visiting with them, and enjoying the conversations and memories they created together.

Steve had a contagious smile that could brighten anyone's day and a playful sense of humor that made people naturally want to spend time with him. He was kind, easygoing, and always ready with a joke or a laugh. His quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Steve is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 46 years, Julie; his sons, Luke (Sharon), Joshua, and John (Kayla); his cherished grandchildren, Ireland, Zeplin, Raelyn, and Kinley; his brothers, Eldon Jr. (Prine), Mark (Jo Ann), and Dennis (Cindy); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Pauline Fife; his sisters, Peggy, Paula, Penny, and Patti; and his brother, Allen.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of life during a visitation from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Merle Hay Funeral Home, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa.

A Funeral Service honoring their life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Immanuel United Methodist Church, 2900 49th Street, Des Moines, Iowa.

A graveside service will follow at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Chapel Hill Gardens Cemetery, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa, where family and friends are welcome to gather for a final farewell.

Though Steve's presence will be greatly missed, his love, laughter, and the countless lessons he shared with those he loved will continue to live on in their hearts.