Steven D. Ellens, age 82, of Byron Center, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, June 25, 2026, after a courageous journey with Parkinson’s Disease. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Bertha (Schripsema) Ellens. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 27 years, Diane Lucar-Ellens; stepdaughters, Alexandra Lucar (Sanjay Lamba), Melissa Lucar (Timothy Van Dyk); daughters, Tarri (Joe) Botwinski, Tricia (Timothy) Dekkinga; grandchildren: Sophia Lucar Lamba, Katalina Lucar Van Dyk, Riley Botwinski, Jamison Botwinski, Quinn Botwinski, Parker (Victoria) Dekkenga; his “adopted” grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Joshua (Caliyah) Roberson and their children, Jireh, and Nissi Roberson; brothers, Sy (Janice) Ellens, Gerald (Gwendolyn) Ellens, Adrian (Margaret) Ellens; several nieces and nephews.

Steve embraced life with faith, creativity, and a spirit of adventure. His deep Christian faith was the foundation of every aspect of his life and guided the way he lived, loved, and served. His love for Jesus Christ was demonstrated through his years as a Bible Study Fellowship leader and his dedicated service with RVICS (Roving Volunteers in Christ's Service). Alongside his beloved wife, Diane, Steve volunteered on more than 60 RVICS projects over 14 years, using his talents to serve churches, camps, and conference centers across the country. Together they also enjoyed traveling by RV, making cherished memories from the shores of California to Prince Edward Island, Canada, and from the Great Lakes to Key West, Florida. 

Steve shared his love of the performing arts as an actor and director with Master Arts Theatre, inspiring audiences, and fellow performers alike. A gifted artist and sculptor, he found joy in creating works that reflected his imagination and craftsmanship. Known for his dry wit, Steve could bring a smile to any conversation with a perfectly timed remark. He amassed a  remarkable collection of more than 900 Frisbees over the years—a hobby that became a favorite conversation starter.

Whether through his ministry, volunteer service, art, or unique interests, Steve left an impression. He lived each day with purpose, generosity, and gratitude. His legacy will be remembered by those fortunate enough to know him. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 am on Monday, July 20, 2026, at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Relatives and friends may visit with the family Sunday, July 19, from  2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the funeral home and on Monday from 10-11 am prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to RVICS or to Master Arts Theater.