Steven Joe Kapayou (Bakaka), known fondly as Stove, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at the age of 48, at his home on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama. A Traditional Wake will be held Thursday, December 12, 2024 at the Fox Clan Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama. A Traditional Graveside Service will be held Friday, December 13, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Morgan Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama.

Steven was born March 28, 1976, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the son of Angelina Kapayou. He was a man of many passions. He was an avid golfer and a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan. Steven was employed as a Library Resource Technician and the Meskwaki Museum, which he enjoyed very much. Most of all, he cherished spending time with his family and loved attending his grandchildren's events. His presence brought laughter to every gathering.

Steven is survived by his two sons, Okoye and Harrison Kapayou of Reno, Nevada; his sister, Deana Shelley Kapayou; and his two brothers, Dean Stanford (Alana) Kapayou and Adam Willis Kapayou Sr.; Grandchildren: Jerome, Sade, and Cahysia Kapayou, Wettikabaiga and Tayven Kapayou, Syncere Kapayou, Koa Kapayou, and Nora, Royce, and Kai Carillo; and his aunt Georgia Keraghan; Nieces and nephews: Jordan Kapayou, Raven Kapayou, Aiden Kapayou, Shauna Kapayou, Zeara Kapayou, Falon Kapayou, Adam Kapayou Jr., Anjali Kapayou, Bradley Kapayou, Aja Kapayou, Amaya Kapayou and Stanford Kapayou.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Angelina Kapayou; and maternal grandparents George Edwin Kapayou Sr., and Fannie (Benson) Kapayou.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rest peacefully, Stove. You will be forever missed.