Stephen Edward Peden

Stephen Edward Peden, 65, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart, IN. He was born on March 10, 1953 in Mishawaka, IN, to James Delmer and Beverly J. (Reed) Peden, both of whom preceded him in death.

On August 23, 1975 in Harris Prairie Church in Granger, IN, Stephen married the former Patricia Walker, who survives. Stephen is also survived by daughter Sarah (Brian Grubbs) Peden of South Bend, IN; son, Christopher Peden of South Bend; and brother, Jeffery (Peggy) Peden of Elkhart. In addition to his parents, Stephen was preceded in death by his sister, Kathie Lynn Peden, as well as his brother, Michael Peden.

Stephen worked in several trades throughout his lifetime, including a machine shop. He loved coaching baseball and softball for his son’s and daughter’s teams while growing up. He loved working on old cars, especially hot rods. He loved going to the James Dean and the Ducktail Run car shows. His dogs held a special place in his heart. He was an avid vegetable gardener and loved canning what he grew. He made the best biscuits and gravy in the world. He could often be found at the Farmers’ Market or restaurant buffets. He enjoyed classic rock and roll, and in his youth, played guitar. He also enjoyed camping.

Funeral services for Stephen will be held at 11:00am on Friday, April 20, 2018 at Palmer Funeral Home—Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend. Rev. Bob Vale will officiate. Graveside services and burial will follow at Sumption Prairie Cemetery in South Bend. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00-8:00pm on Thursday, April 19, and 10:00-11:00am on Friday prior to the service at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Stephen may be donated to Starke County Humane Society, 104 W. State Road 10, North Judson, IN 46366 or American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

Online condolences may be left for the Peden family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

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