AUSTINBURG — William Ernest Stepp “Ernie”, of Austinburg Township, born Dec. 8th, 1953; died on Nov. 11th, 2009.
Ernie was the fifth of nine children born of Pastor John L. Stepp and Carrie Stepp Bankhead.
He loved fishing and boating; and hanging out in his little room off his garage called “Ernies World” with his brothers; his son and his friends. His nephews often stopped by there after work, sometimes challenging Uncle Ernie to a game of basketball or just to visit. He made all the guys feel welcome at his home. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle with friends and family.
Ernie was an avid reader; and enjoyed a good political conversation. He was also a very talented guitar player; growing up in his Dads church, where all the family sang and played instruments.
Ernie was preceded in death by his father, Pastor John L. Stepp in 1978; who built and Pastored the Grace Baptist Church in Rome, Ohio for many years; and his brother Roy Michael “Mickey” Stepp.
In addition to his wife Jayne; son, Bill; and daughter, Lindsey; he is survived by his mother, Carrie Stepp Bankhead; his stepfather, Roy Bankhead; siblings, Judy Stepp of Frankston, Texas; Barbara Masters of Middlefield, John L. “Jay” Stepp Jr., Diane Stevens of Orwell, Debbie Fleger of Williamsfield, Mark Stepp of Orwell and Terry Stanek of Orwell; He also has several nephews and nieces; and great-nephews and great-nieces who loved their Uncle Ernie and have many memories that they will cherish forever.
Ernie will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Obituary and condolences at starbeacon.com.
