Colonel Merlin F. “Steve” Stevens – USAF Retired, passed away on March 8th, 2024. Born on February 4, 1938 in Estherville, Iowa. Steve grew up with seven other siblings, two of whom he is survived by: Lu Hoover (sister) and Ruth Trosin (sister).
Steve enlisted in the Air Force in 1956, climbing to the rank of Colonel prior to his retirement. In 1960, he attended flight school as a cadet in Lubbock, Texas. It was at this time, at one Hi-D-Ho drive-in, that Steve met the love of his life: Suzanne Coursey. The two were married in 1961 and proceeded to travel the world in support of his Air Force career, partaking in countless adventures – many of which involved a party. During this time in his career, Steve flew numerous aircraft in four separate tours with the 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing at Offutt Air Force Base, serving as Wing Commander from November 1982 to October 1984. He retired in 1986 after serving with distinction for 30 years. In 2006, Steve was inducted into the 55th Wing Hall of Fame and cited as being an inspirational leader, role model, and motivator. In the nomination, his peers stated that, “his personal example motivated many who remained with, or returned to, the Fightin’ Fifty-Fifth to become another generation of leaders in the Wing. That is his most positive and lasting legacy.”
Steve had a great love of adventure: hunting, fishing, and flying. Even after retirement from the Air Force, he continued flying both recreationally and as a private pilot. His children and grandchildren have fond memories of flying in his Swift and tagging along to flight breakfasts. Additionally, Steve flew with the Commemorative Air Force and dedicated countless hours to the restoration of war birds, specifically the P-51D Mustang. He also worked with the SAC and Aerospace Museum on the restoration of the only EC-135C Looking Glass on display in the world, which held a special place in his heart as he spent several years flying the “Doomsday Plane.”
Steve was preceded in death by his wife Suzanne Stevens. He is survived by his children: Charles and Laura; grandchildren: Lauren, Erik, Taylor, and Reid; and great-grandchildren: Sawyer, Jackson, and Maddox. He was always happiest in the cockpit of an airplane, slipping the bonds of Earth. His family takes comfort knowing that Steve is once again flying free.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 16, 11:00 a.m., at the First Presbyterian Church, 1220 Bellevue Blvd. South, Bellevue followed by Military Honors by the Offutt Air Force Base Honor Guard.
The Committal Service was held on Tuesday, March 19, 10:00 a.m., at the Omaha National Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to SAC Air & Space Museum Restoration Project.
