Stephen J. Kaplan, age 80, passed away on January 23, 2022. He was a resident of Colorado Springs and was formerly a resident of Denver, Colorado.
Steve was born on June 22, 1941 in Bronx, New York and was later adopted by Abe and Josefine Kaplan. He married Shirley Ayers on July 4, 1998.
Steve enjoyed his time as a Range Safety Officer at Cheyenne Mountain Shooting Complex and was studying to become a Ham Radio Operator. Earlier in his life he enjoyed boating and riding his Harley Davidson. He was a member of the South Denver Masonic Lodge #93 and was proud to be a 32nd Degree Mason. Steve served in the United States Air Force for 4 years.
He is survived by his loving wife, Shirley; his children: Marty (wife, Lissa) Kaplan and Jennie Hageman; his grandchildren: Dakota Kaplan, Hunter Kaplan, Madison (husband, Kyle) Phelps, Kaylee Hageman, Nathan Hageman, Riley Hageman, Sammie Hageman and Raelyn Hageman; and his great-grandson: Kacen Phelps.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at Shrine of Remembrance, 1730 E. Fountain Blvd., Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910.
Memorials in Steve’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/
Angie
29 Jan 2022We’re so sorry to hear of your loss. Steve was a funny and great man. We’re sure gonna miss seeing him at the range. We’re lifting your whole family up with prayers of comfort and strength as you mourn your loved one. Much love to you all. Angie and Kevin
Edward Lee
1 Feb 2022Marty sorry to hear about your father “Stephen Kaplan”, My condolence to you and your family.
On behalf of the Newnan Police Department, we’re here if you need us.
Mel Johnson
1 Feb 2022Steve was one of a kind! My daughter was telling me last night that she would hang back when my sister and I would go change our targets so that she could hang out with Steve, whether that was her enjoying his banter with others or whatever conversations he had with her. He was stern and my teenaged kids appreciated that he took his job and their safety seriously, but they also loved his way. The last time we talked he was most concerned with you. Grief can’t be rushed and it’s not a linear path. Praying for you and your whole family.
Mel Johnson for Sam, KK, and Clara
Jerry Brown
2 Feb 2022I worked with Steve for just a few months at the shooting complex but in those few months Steve demonstrated a love, care, and desire that should be emulated by many today. He taught me alot about life in general. He never turned his back on a question. He was always looking for an opportunity to assist the customers. He never treated them like customers but as a teaching opportunity. Steve will be sorely missed by all. Sorry the weather wouldn’t let all pay their respects but I know you are aware of our respect for you. RIP my friend
Jason Garcia
4 Feb 2022My family is going to miss seeing Steve at the range. His sternness at the range was well appreciated. Some would think he was a little harsh but it was all in the safety of others and teaching the right things to do when handling firearms. He was great to chat with, especially funny when someone was a pain in the butt for him. Rest easy friend.