Obituary of Steven Gregory Marner

Steven Gregory Marner born August 14, 1952 to Donald W. and Marilyn (Hobbs) Marner in Iowa City, Iowa died of pancreatic cancer on September 13, 2025 in the home he loved for 38 years surrounded by his family. He passed peacefully and painlessly comforted by prayers and his faith in God eternal.

He leaves behind his family – wife Joyce and her son Seamus Murphy and dog Rondo, his sister, Gail, his nieces Callie and Helen and nephew Jack, many cousins, especially Dennis Gordon and Fanni Birky, “brothers” Kerry Buchmayer, Charlie Jungk and Greg Gingerich—to cherish his memory.

Steve had passion for life’s gifts. He was a WW II enthusiast immersed in the history of his father’s service with the 357^th fighter group. Steve was proud of his own service in the Air Force where he was stationed in Turkey in satellite communications. He loved Chevrolets, anything golf, travel, the Boston Celtics and good Scotch. He was an audiophile listening to his original vinyl records on his 70’s era stereo equipment.

Steve had a varied career path. From electronics technician in the Biology department at UI to IT support at Iowa State Bank to realtor with several agencies ending with Ruhl and Ruhl. Every client was either a friend or became one.

Steve was a people person who had no problem sharing his progressive theology or car talk with anyone. He made friends easily and kept them for life. He was active in his church serving as trustee, arranging golf outings and liturgists, leading the Methodist Men’s group, participating in annual conferences, Sunday School and the Exploring Theology group. He was always learning and growing in faith which enabled him to face his mortality with confidence and courage.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Monday, September 22, 2025 at First United Methodist Church in Iowa City.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at First United Methodist Church.  Sunday parking ordinance will be in effect.  In lieu of flowers, memorials to First United Methodist or charity of your choice are encouraged.

The family is grateful for the loving support of Essence of Life Hospice, Rev. Dr. Heecheon Jeon and the Camino pilgrims, Bishop Deb Kiesey, and special friends Melanie, Carolyn, Sharon and Joyce T.