Stephen Paul Van Sickel, age 66, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, passed away on July 15, 2026.

Steve graduated from Hayden High School, Topeka, KS, Class of 1977. He later attended the University of Southern Mississippi, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 2014. He dedicated his career to the aerospace (Beechcraft) and shipbuilding (Ingalls) industries. He retired in 2021 after nearly four decades of dedicated service. He was also a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), District 70. Beyond his career, Steve was deeply committed to serving his community as a Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America for 16 years.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald and Patricia Van Sickel; and his brothers, Kevin, Matthew and Andrew Van Sickel.

He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Leslie Ann Van Sickel; his children, Justin Atherton (Nichole) and Ian Atherton (Navi); his siblings, Greg Van Sickel (Sharon) and Chris Van Sickel; and his grandchildren, Wesley Ngo, Alexis Le, Ayden Le, Emerson Atherton, Carson Atherton, and Mackenzie Atherton. He is also survived by his sister-in-laws, Valerie Walker, Delene, Sheri, and Robin Van Sickel.

Steve was a devoted husband, father, and PaPa. He never met a stranger because he saw the good in everyone and everything. There was never a problem he didn't troubleshoot or a broken item he wouldn't try to fix, whether you wanted him to or not. He was best known for his favorite activities, which included brewing beer, skateboarding, and snow skiing. For most weekends of the year, he could be found enjoying the weather—whether it was water skiing on a Kansas lake, tubing through the bayou, or taking his family to Horn Island for a beach day. He appreciated the art of craft beer brewing and enjoyed visiting breweries on all of his travels.

His family and friends will miss him dearly. The ripples of the lessons he taught will impact us for many years to come. In his honor, we will remember to always show up, choose kindness, and pay it forward. Most importantly, we will always remember, "What I like to do, is makea sandwich."

A celebration of Steve's life will be held in the near future. Details will be shared by the family on Facebook when they become available.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport is honored to serve the family.