In Loving Memory

Stephen Arthur Wann
October 10, 1988 — July 13, 2026
It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Stephen Arthur Wann III, a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend, who left this world on July 13, 2026, at the age of 37. Born on October 10, 1988, in Park Falls, Wisconsin, Stephen's life was filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Stephen and his family moved to Central Indiana at a young age.
Stephen was the cherished son of Stephen Arthur Wann Jr. and stepmother Lori Wann of Pendleton, Indiana, and Tammy Klaar Wilke and stepfather Bill Wilke of Janesville, Wisconsin. He was the brother of Shanna Klaar and grew up alongside his brothers, Joseph Abbott and Levi Wann (Taylor). He was a proud uncle to his nephews, Isaac and Landen Wann, who adored him. Stephen's extended family, including several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends, will forever hold him in their hearts.
Stephen attended M.S.D. Lawrence Township and South Madison Community School Corporation, then attending Pendleton Heights High School. His commitment to service was unwavering as he served in the U.S. Army Reserves from April 1, 2008, until his passing. Rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class, Stephen was a respected Senior Drill Sergeant known for his leadership, integrity, and dedication to his fellow soldiers.
Stephen's professional life was marked by his work at The Red Room in Indianapolis, Indiana, and at Harvey Construction in Noblesville, Indiana, before he relocated to Hudson, Florida, to join Republic Services. In each role, Stephen's hard work and positive spirit left a lasting impact on those he worked with.
An avid fisherman, Stephen found joy in the serenity of the water and reveled in the camaraderie of a good fish fry with family and friends. His happy place would always be the Wann Family lakehouse on the lake in Phillips, Wisconsin. His passion for sports was evident as a loyal shareholder of the Green Bay Packers Franchise, proudly donning Packers gear at every opportunity. Stephen's enthusiasm for racing was infectious, and he was a regular at the annual Indy 500 and Brickyard 400 races, sharing unforgettable moments with his friends.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Stephen's Army brothers, whose support were a source of strength and pride for him throughout his military career.
In honor of Stephen's memory, donations can be made to a charity of your choice or to any veterans' organization supporting military families. Stephen's legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday July 25th, 2026 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at the Madison Lodge #44 located at 642 West State Street, Pendleton, Indiana 46064.
Funeral Program
Service Details
Son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend
Poem / Prayer
You can shed tears that he is gone, Or you can smile because he has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all he's left. Your heart can be empty because you can't see him, Or you can be full of the love you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday, Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember him and only that he's gone, Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back, Or you can do what he'd want: Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.