ELKHART — Stephanie Jo Kiefer, 76, of Elkhart, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, at Elkhart General Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born March 25, 1941, in Elkhart, to the late John T. Kensill and Irma (Leatherman) Miller.

She married her high school sweetheart Dale E. Kiefer on Sept. 3, 1960.

Surviving are her husband of 57 years, Dale E. Kiefer; three daughters, Kristin Ashcraft, Kelly Kiefer and Karen Thacker; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Mike (Susan) Kensill and Kim (Sherry) Kensill; and two sisters, Susan (Wayne) Fenton and Barbara Cotter.

A sister, Karen Emge preceded her in death.

Stephanie was a 1959 graduate of Elkhart High School, where she remained active with the class reunion committee.

She worked as a secretary at Elkhart Machine and Tool for many years.

Stephanie was not only a loving wife, mother, and grandmother (GiGi), but she loved spending her free time enjoying the warm weather and beaches of Florida.

She enjoyed helping others any way she could and was an avid animal lover.

Friends and relatives may visit with the family one hour prior to the 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, memorial service at Billings Funeral Home. 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart.

Pastor Plez Lovelady will officiate.

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place.

Donations are welcome to the American Cancer Society, in honor of several loved ones.