Steve Lecher

Stephen "Steve" Lecher

September 8, 1943 – October 2, 2025

Stephen Lecher, beloved husband, father, teacher, and car salesman, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and inspiration to everyone who knew him.

From the very beginning, Steve was a gift to his family. Born without arms, he never let his physical limitations define him. Instead, he defined himself—through strength of character, a zest for life, and a deep love for family, children, and friends. His spirit was a light that brought joy not only to those closest to him, but to everyone he met.

Steve attended Kenwood Elementary and graduated from Assumption Academy in 1961, where he was actively involved as a class officer, on the annual staff, and in the glee club and choir. His school years were marked by strong friendships and an early sense of leadership and service.

During summers, Steve could often be found working in the fields for a local farmer—harvesting crops and driving a tractor. His determination and strong work ethic were evident from a young age.

On September 10, 1966, he married the love of his life, Diane Gray. Together, they raised two sons, Brian Lecher and Jeff Lecher.

Steve studied at Chadron State College, earning his teaching certificate. He began his teaching career at Thomsen Country School (K–8) in Oelrichs, South Dakota, and later taught at Vinton School in the Nebraska Sandhills, where he worked alongside close friends Terry Cogdil and their wives, Diane and Betty. Steve found great joy in teaching and left a lasting impression on countless young lives.

Following his years in education, Steve became a Case Manager at the Department of Labor in Loup City, Nebraska. One of his favorite parts of the job was helping high school students find part-time summer jobs—supporting their first steps into the workforce.

Eventually, Steve and Diane returned to Chadron, where they opened Tommy’s Carlot with their family—a new chapter that allowed him to stay connected with people in a different, yet equally meaningful, way. Steve sold many vehicles over the years, and he always remembered the person, their story, and the make and model of the vehicle. His relationships with customers often turned into lifelong friendships.

Those who knew Steve remember his sense of humor, his easy smile, and his deep, abiding faith in others. Whether in a classroom, a wheat field, or behind a desk, Steve gave his full self—and always had a good story to tell.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his sons, Brian (Amber) Lecher and Jeff Lecher; and his seven grandchildren: Brady (Krysta) Lecher, Kiaya Lecher, Emily Lecher, Tommy Lecher, Isabella Lecher, Madalyn Lecher, and Sabrina Lecher. He also leaves behind a host of friends who were lucky enough to have known him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Fern Lecher; and siblings LaWayne Sides, Wayne Sides and Bernard Lecher.

Visitation will be held at St. Patrick’s Church on Thursday, October 9, at 7:00 p.m. A memorial service will take place on Friday, October 10, at 10:30 a.m., also at St. Patrick’s Church in Chadron, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery and a Celebration of Life at the American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Chadron Fire Department.

Steve will be missed, remembered, and celebrated—not for the challenges he faced, but for the life he chose to live in spite of them.