Our dear friend and herMANA, Claudia Rempel, and her family are facing an unimaginable loss. On February 5, 2026, Claudia’s beloved husband and the devoted father of their two children, Steven Rempel, passed away at just 46 years old.
Steven and Claudia were married in 2018 and built a beautiful life together with their sons, Steven KB. (17) and Ritchie (6). Their family has always been grounded in love, resilience, and deep devotion to one another.
In November 2021, Steven was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, which progressed to stage 4 just two months later. His only symptom had been blood in his stool for a short time before he sought care, a reminder of how quietly this disease can move. Over the next 51 months, Steven endured more than most could imagine. He experienced multiple major surgeries including colon and liver resections, lymph node dissection, liver ablation, lung, liver and spinal radiation, liver stent and biliary drain placement and multiple drain replacements and countless hospital stays. He bravely underwent more than 60 rounds of IV chemotherapy and additional oral treatments, never once giving up hope.
Though he was never able to hear the words “no evidence of disease,” Steven fought with everything he had for Claudia and their boys, holding tightly to hope for more time together.
Steven walked alongside Steven KB through all stages of his growth through the passions they shared including becoming his baseball coach at the young age of 5 through age of 12 when he was forced to stop due to the illness. He was so proud to see him playing on varsity for his high school up to just a few weeks ago. With Ritchie, who is neurodivergent, he was a constant and attentive father, fully engaged in his therapy, education, and growth, advocating for him and honoring the unique way he experiences the world. Being a father was not simply something Steven did, it was who he was. He showed up every day with quiet strength, patience, and unwavering love.
Steven had a deep love for classic hot rods from the 1950s through the 1970s. One of his proudest accomplishments was rebuilding and painting his 1954 Chevy in time for his wedding. He was also a passionate collector of vinyl records, cassettes, VHS and CDs. From his early days in Boy Scouts, he cherished camping, the ocean, and surfing. He loved all sports, especially his teams the San Diego Padres and the Denver Broncos. His hands were always building something, restoring something, loving something back to life.
Steven KB carries forward his father’s interests, supported by his uncles and Steven’s close friends who are stepping in as steady mentors and guides. Ritchie will continue to receive the therapeutic and educational support he needs, surrounded by family and community who are committed to his growth and well-being.
Claudia remains the steady heart of this family. Through every diagnosis, treatment, and setback, she stood beside her husband and supported her boys with fierce love. As they move forward, she continues to anchor their home with strength, care, and devotion.
Steven will be remembered for his quiet courage, his craftsmanship, his loyalty, and the deep, selfless love he poured into his family. His legacy lives on in Claudia, Steven KB, Ritchie, and in the many lives he touched.
This GoFundMe has been created to surround Claudia and her children with support during this time of profound grief, helping with immediate expenses, ongoing family needs, and ensuring the boys have continued access to therapy, education, and the opportunities their father dreamed of for them. Claudia has had to be strong for a very long time, doing everything she could for her family through unimaginable circumstances. In this moment, her village is stepping forward to hold her and her children with the same care she has always given others.
If you are able, please consider contributing, sharing this page, or holding the Rempel family in your thoughts and prayers. Every act of kindness matters and is very much appreciated.
With gratitude and love,
The Rempel Family Village
(Adri Brunner, Liz Ramirez, Patty Campos, Grace Major, Vicky Chavez, & Adrianna O'Donnell)