Kenneth Stevenson

Kenneth W. "Bear" Stevenson, 55, of Indianapolis and formerly of Springfield, Ill., passed away at his residence following an apparent heart attack on Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010.

He was born in Clay County on Aug. 20, 1955, the son of Earl Wayne and Shirley (Stitzle) Stevenson.

Kenny graduated from Van Buren High School in 1973 and later received his master's degree from Purdue in 1980.

Kenny worked with the Indiana Department of Correction as an institutional teacher.

Within the D.O.C. Kenny created and designed horticulture education programs for various correctional facilities. He also ran programs and taught horticulture education at the Boy's School in Plainfield and procured jobs for individuals graduating from the course.

Kenny also owned and operated K and F Bags, K and F Customs, Wagon Wheel Western Wear, and Bears Custom Wears.

Bear, as he was known in the horse world, made contributions in making custom made apparel as well as tack.

Most recently Ken owned Stevenson Properties, in Indianapolis, a rental property and property management company.

Amongst many other philanthropic endeavors Ken was a member of the Willard Park Neighborhood Association where he chaired the Garden, bylaws and co-fund raising committees.

While serving with the Association Ken created a garden where they grew produce that was given to local food pantries.

He was a member of the Lena United Methodist Church and attended the Willard Park Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ancle and Ruby Stitzle, and Ray and Amy Stevenson.

Survivors include his parents, Earl and Shirley Stevenson; brothers Dr. Michael R. Stevenson of Sedona, Arizona; Alan Stevenson and wife Elizabeth of Brazil, and James Stevenson and wife Lisa of Brazil; niece Paige Stevenson; nephews: Ethan, Dustin and Dakota Stevenson.

A celebration of life will be held at French Funeral Home on Thursday at 6 p.m. Visitation will be at the funeral home Thursday from 4 p.m. until time of services.

At his request cremation has been scheduled.

Should friends so desire, donations may be made to the Willard Park of Holy Cross, Westminster Alliance; Willard Park HCW c/o Sue Spicer 341 N. Hamilton Ave Indianapolis, IN 46201.