John R.K. Stieper

The Reverend John R.K. Stieper, age 87, of Barrington Hills, Illinois passed away peacefully Monday, October 24, 2022, surrounded by his family. John was born in Chicago, IL on January 21, 1935. John was an Episcopal priest at the Church of St. Columba where he raised funds, oversaw construction of the church and school buildings and then providing spiritual leadership to its congregation for 37 years.

John also was a loving father, brother, son, friend, academic, artist, and entrepreneur who loved life, family, art, art restoration, music, literature, psychology, law, economics, history, politics, horticulture and arboriculture, traveling, and the teachings of Christ. He earned an undergraduate degree from DePauw University, graduate degrees from Yale University, University of Montpellier, France and studied at The University of Oxford. He worked at The Yale Psychiatric Institute in New Haven, taught at Seabury-Western, and coached swimming at Elgin Community College. Throughout his Priesthood, beside St. Columba, he served parishes in England and was the Director of St. Leonard’s House in Chicago. He had a profound impact on the lives of many through his parenting, friendships, spiritual guidance, counseling, teaching, and mentoring.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116

John will be dearly missed by his sons, David M. Stieper and John R. Stieper III; his grandsons, John D. Stieper and Michael M. Stieper; and his sisters, Nancy Kamke and Carol Stieper.

Preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Margaret Stieper; his brother-in-law, Frank Kamke and nephew, Scott Kamke.

A private service for immediate family members will be held at a later date.