Obituary of Steve Kepran

Kepran, John Stephens (Steve) passed away peacefully and without pain on Sunday March 29, 2026 at the age of 81.

Steve was the loving husband of Ardra (nee Merwin) for over 56 years, and the devoted father to Jeff (Jen), Sarah Blair (Ryan), Erin and Stephanie Ferranti (Eric).

Proud and adoring grandfather of Zoe and Max Kepran, Kennedy, Jackson, and Sam Blair, and Scarlett Ferranti. Steve enjoyed every soccer match, hockey game, swim meet and baseball tournament of his grandchildren.

Steve is survived by his loving and care-giving sister Virginia Cross (Skip) and sister-in-law Doris Kepran. He will be missed by many extended family members.

He shared a close and lifelong bond with his uncle George, Aunt Pat (1998) and their son George Jr. and his family.

He was predeceased by his parents Steve and Mary Jane and his best friend and brother Ralph.

Steve was a proud and dedicated 30 year employee of Ford Motor Co. Dearborn. He loved sailing on any vessel, but especially his favourite Moonshadow and enjoyed years of membership at LaSalle Mariners Yacht Club. When sailing became a little too challenging, he switched to camping and travelled the US in his Chinook motorhome. He was well known as a builder and fixer of all things and would gladly spend countless hours tinkering until he arrived at a solution. In 2011, after being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, Steve received a life-saving double lung transplant, which gave him the precious gift of 15 years full of beautiful family moments. We are all deeply grateful for the time that the donor family gifted us.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Steven Berecz for his years of patient and compassionate care and to Dr. Jarvis and the incredible nursing staff at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Hospital palliative care unit.

As per his wishes cremation has taken place.

A memorial visitation will be held at Windsor Chapel Banwell Chapel on Saturday April 4, 2026 from 2:00pm until 4:00pm and again on Monday April 6 from 6:00pm until 7:00pm followed by the funeral service at 7:00pm.

Donations made to the University Health Network Foundation - Ajmera Transplant Centre  would be appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Windsor Chapel Banwell Funeral Home.