Dennis Michael Stephens, 79 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, April 12, 2026. He was born September 16, 1946, in Barnesville, OH, to the late Alfred and Phyllis (Walsh) Stephens. Mike graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1965. He began his career with McGill Manufacturing as a machine operator, before training to become a journeyman electrician, and finally retired as a supervisor after 34 years of employment. Mike was also a former vice president of the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers through McGill’s. Mike was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge 2517 in Valparaiso, and the Regional Streeters Car Club. In his free time, he enjoyed classic cars and golfing. Mike even had a hole in one at Chesapeake Run Golf Club in North Judson. He was a free-spirited man with an adventurous personality. Many will remember Mike as a kind, compassionate, and loving person who put his family above all else. Mike was a devoted and caring husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
On June 12, 1965, Mike married the love of his life, Rita Rowland, who survives, along with their children: Kimberly (Kurt) Wilson of Valparaiso, and Mark (DeAnn) Stephens of Westville; grandchildren: Derek (Ashley) Wilson, Tyler (Melissa) Wilson, Joshua (Eliza) Stephens, and Erin Stephens; great-grandsons, Antonio, Levi, and Cameron; and his beloved dog, Georgie. He was preceded in death by his brother, Timothy Stephens.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge 2517, 805 Elm Street, Valparaiso, IN, with a service beginning at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge 2517.
GUESTBOOK
R.I.P.. my GREAT Friend I MISSS You Already! -Steven Clemens
I’m so sorry to hear of Mikey’s passing! Rita Mae, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you! Mikey was a wonderful man and will be sorely missed! -Vicki & Michael Fege
Hadn't seen Mike in years after he left the neighborhood but this last year ran into him 3 to 4 times. Looked the same as good old days except a little more gray hair like all of us. Lol. But glad to bump into him this last year. God knows what he's doing. God be with his wife and family. -Gregory Howard
Rita and Mark and the family I’m so so sorry to hear about Mike. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Love to you all. -Marcella Thompson
Rita, so very sorry for your loss! Prayers! -Yvonne Fivecoats Condo
Mrs. Stephens, Kim, and Mark, I’m so sorry to hear of Mr. Stephens passing. I know I’ve been gone from valpo for a long time but I have always and will always have great respect for your family. I appreciated everything that you guys did for me over the years and were always very welcoming to me. Your kindness will always be remembered. Again my condolences, -Scott Herbst
So sorry for the family’s loss. Mike was a great guy! -Dave Cannon
Rita Im so sorry to hear about Mikes passing, you will be in my prayers, Mike is in Gods arms now, -Patty Williams Alexander
