Galen Ray Steward, 78, of Auburn, KS, passed away Saturday, October 9, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. He was born December 20, 1942 in Mayetta, KS, the son of Elizabeth Vivian (Moore) Gifford. He was raised by his foster parents, Bob and Lucille Shumway.
Galen graduated Mayetta High School in 1963 and Haskell University after 2 years with an Associates Degree in Physical Education. Galen worked for over 30 years for Josten’s in Topeka as a Pressman; retiring in 2008.
Galen was a member of Catholic Religion and Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.
He married Caroll Jean Dinsmore, they divorced. He married Mabel “Kay” Henderson in 1989 at Auburn, KS.
Survivors include Kay Steward of Auburn, KS; son, Keith Steward (Lori) of Ottawa, KS; daughter, Kim Henry (Jerald) of Topeka, KS; 2 step-children, Richard H. Veal and Stephanie K. Jensen; sister, Betty A. Maruska (Marvin) of Glendale, CA; brother, John Gifford of Cambridge, OH; 5 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren 3 step-grandchildren and 3 step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Gifford; foster parents, Bob and Lucille Shumway; sister, Juanita Nelson and brother, Paul Steward.
Family will greet friends 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Friday, October 15, 2021 at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Inurnment will follow at the Shipshee Cemetery (142nd and K Rd., Mayetta, KS). Memorials may be given to the Helping Hands Humane Society of Topeka c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.