Steven Glenn Hofstetter, 83, known to his large family as “Papa,” passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, October 25, 2026, with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Linda of Mexico, Missouri.
Steve was born in Moline, Illinois, to Glenn and Maxine Glancy Hofstetter. A 1960 graduate and football standout at United Township High School, Steve continued his education and gridiron success at Augustana College, where he graduated in 1964 with a Bachelor of Science in Geology. Steve’s first professional post was in Human Resources at John Deere and Co. During that work, he was instrumental in organizing a brand new after-work Adult Education program for employees at the John Deere East Moline Works. This program, co-sponsored by Blackhawk College, enabled employees to learn after work on site, and many completed their GED high school equivalency that first year of operation.
Steve was subsequently recruited as the first full-time director of Adult Basic Education at Blackhawk College. With Steve’s leadership, this new ABE program expanded throughout the BHC service area, and included classes in English as a Second Language, Basic Adult Education, and workplace training. Steve’s exemplary work led to his being recognized as the Adult Educator of the Year in Illinois in the mid-1970s. Next, he was an independent developer and contractor in Lake of the Ozarks. Towards the end of his career, he was a designer for Designer Kitchen and Bath in Osage Beach.
Steve was a champion of learning for all and worked tirelessly within educational settings and business environments to improve learning programs for adults. He earned a Master’s Degree in Adult Education from Northern Illinois University at the time he was returning to John Deere. Steve’s leadership there in equity, justice, and continuing learning were models for others to follow. Throughout his adult life, Steve demonstrated his belief and commitment to lifelong learning, in formal and informal settings.
An avid woodcarver, Steve traveled to craft fairs across the region. His wildlife, landscapes, and Santa Clauses won many awards. He was also a juried member of Best of Missouri Hands. At his service, the honorary pallbearers will be the Lake of the Ozarks Wood Carver’s Club. He rode trails with his horses, spent hours on his property watching wildlife and his hummingbirds, and loved bluegrass music, John Wayne films, and the movie theater. He and Linda traveled often, with highlights including Mount Rushmore, Hawaii, Gulf Shores, and Alaksa.
Above all, Steve was a family man. He supported his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in everything they did. He gave sound advice and helped anyone in need, whether family, friend, or stranger. And if you were lucky, you got to hear his deep belly laugh. He was a man of faith and a member of Harper Chapel Methodist.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 31 years, Linda; his children, Scott (Janet), Stephanie, Greg, and Brent (Kim); and his cherished grandchildren: Sarah and Samantha; Errick and Stephen; Brittanie and Courtney; and Brooke and Brendan; and his adored great-grandchildren, Olive, Emma, and Caden.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Linda Schurvinske; and his brother, Kenneth Hofstetter.
Friends will be received from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home-Osage Beach, on what would have been Steve’s 84th birthday.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home-Osage Beach.
Graveside services and interment will follow at 1:30pm at East Lawn Memorial Gardens in Mexico, Missouri, where he will be laid to rest. Afterwards, the family would like for you to join them at the Mexico Elks Lodge for a celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to the Lake of the Ozarks Idiots Club (Idiots Club P.O. Box 1185, Osage Beach, MO 65065), The American Cancer Society (American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741), or donor’s choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 514 State Hwy 42, Osage Beach, MO 65065 (573) 348-3232.
