Richard "Dick" Stevens passed away quietly in his sleep on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the age of 84. He benefited from being able to spend his last years at home in St. Joseph, MO.

Dick had many loves but those of us who knew him well know where his true love could be found – in a bowling alley. As a young man he reveled in drag racing, breaking records and making life-long friends, and when not tinkering with cars, spent the rest of his time in the bowling alley where he earned money for his love of racing. Before there were machines to do it, Dick set bowling pins by hand each time a bowler would knock them down! From there he ultimately drilled thousands of bowling balls for many who will never forget him. He loved to share his knowledge with young and old alike. Dick turned his passion into a professional career, even making his way to television. He spent years traveling the United States winning tournaments with quiet confidence and competitiveness. Many of his best friends were his teammates. One of his proudest moments came when he became the first person to ever bowl a perfect game in St. Joseph, MO!

Growing up in Moline, Ill, with his parents, Lester and Irene and sisters Nancy, Barbara and Donna, he spent his childhood there until finding his way to Missouri where he continued in the bowling business, even buying his own center, the Pony Express Lanes. He then spent about 20 years in Nebraska, and upon returning to St. Joseph, established Kegler's Corner, his own pro shop where he worked until he retired.

Seeking companionship, Dick found love several times and heartbreak just as many. He is survived by children Barbara Stevens, St. Joseph, Patrick Stevens, Omaha and Jordan Stevens, St. Joseph. He also continues his bloodline with several grand and great-grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to gather for an informal celebration of life on Saturday, December 7, anytime from 12pm to 3pm at Heaton-Bowman-Smith & Sidenfaden Chapel located at 3609 Frederick Ave A, St. Joseph, MO, 64506.