Steve Wiesner

Stephen Mark "Steve" Wiesner, 72, of Derby, Kansas, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, with his family by his side. He was born on January 23, 1954, in Wichita, Kansas, to Lawrence and Juanita (Pfiefer) Wiesner.

Steve dedicated 40 years and three months of distinguished service to Beechcraft Aircraft before his retirement. He was very adamant about including those last three months-and if they were left out, he would quickly set the record straight. He was a devoted family man who consistently placed the needs and desires of his loved ones first, treating his wife, Gay, like a queen and his son, Max, like a king. He shared an especially close bond with Max-they were truly two peas in a pod. Steve cherished the time they spent together, whether going shooting, watching movies, or enjoying meals out. Steve also enjoyed cooking, with his lasagna being a treasured family favorite, prepared with both pride and generosity.

A lover of the outdoors, Steve took great pride in maintaining an immaculate home and yard, often insisting on the highest standards of presentation. He found great pleasure relaxing on the deck by his cherished above-ground pool, a fixture for three decades, where he hosted many memorable pool parties and barbecues for family and friends on warm summer holidays.

Though he would playfully claim to dislike holiday decorating, his wife asserts he secretly enjoyed the festive preparations. Steve also relished his quiet drives, affectionately termed "putting around" by Gay, as he journeyed to the bank, store, or McDonald's, finding contentment in the simple act of driving.

Known for his stubborn, determined, and independent spirit, Steve was a remarkable provider, a loving husband, and an exceptional father. He possessed a wonderful sense of humor, often engaging in good-natured pranks and jokes.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gay Lee Barlow-Wiesner; his son, Max (Sarah) Wiesner; sisters, Myra (Terry) Bennett and Karla Copeland; sisters-in-law, Kandy Barlow and Debbie Wiesner; and his bonus son, Andrew Burlakoff. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Juanita Wiesner; his brother, Dave Wiesner; and his sisters, Liz Lackey and Hope Pierce.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Smith Family Mortuary, 1415 N. Rock Rd., Derby, KS 67037. On this Good Friday, we find solace in the promise that death is not the final chapter. Because of Christ's sacrifice and His victory over the grave, we grieve with hope. As Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in Me will never die." - John 11:25-26.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider a memorial contribution to CaringBridge in Steve's honor (Donate Here).