Steven L. Seawall

Steven “Steve” Seawall passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on April 17, 1948, in Tecumseh, Nebraska, he was the youngest of five children of Lorance and Elna Seawall. Steve embraced the simple joys of small-town life, fondly recalling childhood adventures like collecting bottle caps to earn a treat from the local store. His early aptitude for numbers shone brightly, as exemplified by his outstanding performance in high school—graduating from Tecumseh High School in 1966 and playing a key role in propelling his school to a remarkable 12th-place ranking among 163 institutions in the state on the National Math Test.

His academic journey continued at Peru State College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science, followed by a Master of Science in Biochemistry from Oklahoma State University. Steve’s lifelong ambition of learning was matched by his passion for creative problem-solving, a trait that would later define his professional career.

It was during these formative years that Steve met Sarah Goracke, a fellow native of Tecumseh. They married and moved to Oklahoma while Steve finished school then to New Jersey, where Steve built a distinguished career with Hoffman-La Roche Inc. and became a proud member of the Nutley Jaycees. Continuing his commitment to excellence, he furthered his education at Fairleigh Dickinson University, earning both a Master of Public Administration and an MBA. Ultimately, Steve and Sarah found their true home just north of Topeka, Kansas, where they built a house on a small acreage and welcomed their daughter, Stephanie, in July 1980.

Steve’s professional accomplishments were as impressive as his academic ones. In 1982, he earned his CPA certificate with the highest score among all candidates that day in the State of Kansas—a testament to his unwavering dedication and expertise. His career with the State of Kansas was marked by consistent service and commitment until retirement, after which his innovative spirit led him to launch Custom Micro Works. Through his company, he designed, developed, and managed an accounting and payroll software—affectionately known as “The New Approach”—which found a home in several small Kansas cities.

A natural storyteller with a generous heart, Steve delighted everyone with his entertaining anecdotes and fond memories. He reminisced about his theatrical exploits in high school with a sense of humor and nostalgia, and his unbelievable, laughter-inducing adventures with his brother Bud left an enduring mark on all who heard them. To his many nieces and nephews, he was simply “Uncle Steve”—a beloved figure who brought unforgettable joy through skiing trips, exciting vacations, bowling outings, and holiday home videos. An annual excursion to Kansas by his brother and nephews for a spirited football game in support of the Huskers became a cherished family tradition.

As a devoted father, Steve filled his daughter Stephanie’s life with adventure and guidance. He reveled in taking her to Joyland amusement park, gymnastics meets, and KU Jayhawk football games. Steve and Stephanie shared a special bond that extended even into the aisles of thrift and discount stores. He was her biggest fan in her softball journey, even taking time to teach her the thrill of motorcycle riding. He was fully present and invested in her success. The family's full-size tan van symbolized their many road trips across the United States—a journey filled with shared laughter, exploration, and a deep bond with family and friends. Later in life, as Stephanie raised her own family, Steve returned to Nebraska to be closer to those he loved most.

Grandparenthood unlocked a new chapter of joy for Steve. Always present at every trick-or-treat outing, park adventure, or family gathering, he earned the well-deserved title of “Grandpa of the Year” in the hearts of his grandchildren, who cherished every moment spent by his side.

Throughout his life, music was a constant source of comfort and inspiration. Whether he was lost in thought while tinkering with his many home projects in the garage or unwinding in front of the TV with a good western in the evenings, music provided a backdrop to his innovative and spirited life.

Steve’s brilliant mind, warm humor, and boundless love have left an unforgettable mark on his family, friends, and community. He will forever be remembered as an extraordinary uncle, father, and grandfather.

He is survived by his daughter: Stephanie Barnason; son-in-law: Lane Barnason; granddaughters: Sloane and Lauren Barnason; his brother: Larry “Bud” Seawall; sisters: Elizabeth Sisk and Henrietta Bohling; sister-in-law: JoAnne Munn; and a host of cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Lorance and Elna Seawall; his brother: Dennis Seawall; and his brother-in-law: Gary Bohling.

A celebration of Steve’s remarkable life will be held at a later date for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be sent to Roeder Mortuary, 11710 Standing Stone Dr. Gretna, NE 68028 —with all contributions dedicated to the college education of his granddaughters, a cause that Steve held close to his heart.

Roeder Mortuary, Inc. - Gretna Chapel - 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090

www.RoederMortuary.com