Steven Rex Opdycke

Steven Rex Opdycke, 80, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Wheatland Nursing Center in Russell.

Steven was born July 9, 1945 in Kansas City, Missouri. He was adopted by Ford Anthony and Anna K. (Frieschen) Opdycke when he was an infant and raised in rural Russell. He graduated from Russell High School in the Class of 1963. After high school, He proudly joined the US Navy, serving from 1963 to 1983. He practically traveled over the whole world serving his country as a P3 Flight Engineer. When he left the military, he had a rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer, and returned to the Russell area.

Steven pledged his heart to Sharon Brinson in 1990. This 13 year union was blessed with two children; Megan and Jamie, who were happily together until Sharon passed at age 55 in 2003. Steven found the partner he would spend the rest of his life with in Justina Kuntzsch on June 2, 2007. They made their home on the family farm in Russell.

After the military, Steven worked as an Industrial Hygienist for Civil Service on Military Bases. He also worked with the Neveda Sheriff's Department and the Russell County Sheriff's department. For over 20 years he volunteered at Russell County Fire District #5. In his spare time, he was licensed as a Gun Salesman, watched birds, played cards, and spoiled many pets, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, all hobbies he took very seriously. He attended the 7th Day Advent Church.

Steven’s surviving family include his wife, Justina of the home; children, Suzette Opdycke of New Mexico, Evette Milliken of Arizona, Megan Reeves of Texas and Jamie Opdycke of Oklahoma; sister, Peggy A. Brewer of Springdale, Arkansas; seven grandchildren; and twelve nieces and nephews.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Sharon.

Celebration of Steven’s Life will be held at 1:00 PM, Friday, January 30, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, with the family present to greet friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Memorial has been established with the Russell County Fire District #5. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.