Michael Stephens

Concluding a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis, Michael Stephens died on December 14, 2014 in Bloomington, Indiana at the age of 60 surrounded by his family. He leaves behind his wife, Deborah Collins Stephens, his daughter, Lily Stephens, his son, Aaron Stephens and Miari Skipper whom he loved as a daughter. He also leaves behind his sister, Billie Wellman, his brother Richard Stephens along with beloved nieces and nephews Guy Wellman, Drew Wellman, Michael Stephens, Matt Stephens, Kate Stephens and Daniel Greiger. Michael was born July 5, 1954 in Rensselaer, Indiana to father Willard Stephens and mother Lillian Hale who predeceased him. Michael graduated from Indiana University and moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1980 where he created a very successful career in apparel manufacturing. He and his family returned to Indiana in 2006 where he spent the last years of his life surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly. Michael married college classmate Deborah Collins on September 3, 1980 in Lake Tahoe, California. They created a wonderful life together and were blessed with two children. When diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in fall 2000, Michael was given 5 years to live. Michael's relentless optimism, his courage and his strong will made him among the longest living patients in the nation with this disease. All those who interacted with him left filled with inspiration. In his final days Michael's sense of humor, his smile and his kindness were always present. Michael requested to be cremated. His ashes will be spread in Half Moon Bay, California and also on Lake Maxincukee in Culver, Indiana. A Celebration of Life for all whom wish to join will be held Saturday December 20th from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the Indiana University Memorial Union (Federal Room)on the Indiana University campus. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that people consider a donation in Michael's honor to Bloomington Hospice House and/or Pulmonary Fibrosis Association. The family would like to thank Indiana University Health Hospice Group and especially Sheryl Gordon and Dr. Robert Stone for their extraordinary and loving care of Michael and his family. Allen Funeral Home and Crematory 4155 South Old Highway 37 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.allenfuneralhome.org.

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Michael Stephens

July 5, 1954 - December 14, 2014