Steven W. Roper

Steven Warren Roper, age 74, passed away on June 4, 2026, at the Hospice Home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Steve was born on April 25, 1952, in Lake City, Minnesota, and grew up on the Roper family farm in Red Wing, Minnesota. The values he learned there—hard work, dedication, kindness, and love of family—remained with him throughout his life. He was known for his warm heart, sense of humor, and the deep care he showed to those around him. Steve graduated from Red Wing High School and St. Cloud State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business with a concentration in Marketing.

Steve spent 30 years in retail management before purchasing a franchise of College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving. During that time, he dedicated himself to providing jobs and second chances to young people struggling to find stability and encouraged them to discover their strength through faith, family, and hard work. He retired in 2024 to spend more time with family and to return to the hobbies he loved: skiing, traveling with Terry and Chris, serving others, hosting gatherings, playing Euchre with family, and working outdoors.

Steve was a member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, where he found great joy serving on the Outreach Committee. His passion was helping address food insecurity and supporting children and families in need. Prior to joining Hayes Barton, he served as Missions Chair at Millbrook United Methodist Church and remained active in the Millbrook Iron Men's Group.

Steve was also an active member of the Raleigh Ski and Outing Club. Through the years, the club provided him with many adventures, lasting memories, and cherished friendships. Most recently, he served as Ski Race Director. He leaves behind many close friends whose lives were enriched by his friendship, enthusiasm, and generous spirit.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Warren and Joyce Roper; his brother, Michael Roper; and several beloved aunts, uncles, and in-laws.

Steve is survived by his wife, Terry, and his son, Christopher, who were the center of his life and brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his sister, Brenda Hanks (Dave); his brother, Dan Roper (Mary); brothers-in-law Kevin Kilmartin, Mike Kilmartin (Judy), John Kilmartin (Wrenn), and Bob Kilmartin (Rebecca); sister-in-law Kathy Olevsky (Rob); many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins on both sides of the family; and children from a previous marriage, John, Jim, and Jessica.

Steve will be remembered for his devotion to family, his strong character, his faith, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and generosity.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026. A reception with the family will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Methodist Home for Children, a cause that was especially close to Steve's heart. Donations may be made at https://www.mhfc.org/give/.