Steven Arthur Haffer entered into rest on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 33. Precious son of Steven M. and Barbara C, nee Ridenour, Haffer; dear brother of Alicia C. Gelhaar; beloved uncle to Juniper Gelhaar; cherished nephew of Christina Haffer, James Haffer, Michelle Haffer, Stuart Haffer, Lisa Haffer, Josephine Pratt, Mary Moncivais,  Toni (Jerry) Spengler, Adele Casias, Raymond (Pam) Ridenour, Nick Ridenour and Mary and the late Andrea Ridenour and John Ridenour; dear cousin of many; blessed grandson of Arther and Janet Haffer and Ray and Lillian Ridenour; and dedicated and trustworthy friend of Kayla Kissilov, Kyle Dixon, Chris Evans, Dustin Day, Omar Watson, Millie Marie, and trusted leader and friend of the crew at Schlafly. Steve is also survived by many other dear relatives and friends.

Steve was born in early September 1992 to joyous parents, Steven and Barbara, in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up, one of Steve’s role models was name-fellow and animal lover, Steve Irwin. Steve’s own love for animals, especially dogs and opossums, was noteworthy throughout his life. In his younger years, Steve aimed to become President, with the end goal of making sure every dog had a happy and safe home. In his youth, Steve also found adventure in the Explorers where his curious mind and zest for the excitement that life can bring was nurtured.

Steve was a proud alumnus of Cleveland Visual and Performing Arts ROTC, a school where his expansive passions could be shared. He bravely worked as an emergency medical technician for the City of St. Louis for some time before he was called in different direction. Steve found fulfillment in his career as Chef at Schlafly Bottleworks where he artfully created delightful dishes for over eight years. In his free time, Steve enjoyed, but did not take for granted, the simple joys of life. He loved to hang out with his friends, especially when they played Fortnight, and he is remembered for his enjoyment of “wine, women, and song.”

Steve had an incredibly memorable personality, always full of energy and focus. His zest for life and wide-ranging sense of humor allowed him to lead an impactful and fulfilling life. He will be greatly missed by all who had the chance to meet him. We mourn our loss, but we celebrate Steve and the memories made with the precious time we had with him. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Stray Rescue of St. Louis or Feed My People in Steve’s honor.

A visitation for Steve’s family and friends to gather and share memories will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel, 4830 Lemay Ferry Rd.. St. Louis, MO 63129. His funeral service will be held the following afternoon, Friday, December 12, at 1:30 p.m., also at the funeral home before interment in Mount Hope Cemetery.