Stephen "Steve" LaPrad

Stephen “Steve” Bradley LaPrad, 76, of Pratt, KS, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Bethany Home in Lindsborg, KS.

Steve was born on October 11, 1948, in Frankfort, IN, the son of Fred Manard and Wilma Evelyn (Smeltzer) LaPrad. He graduated from Rossville High School in 1966 and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from McPherson College in 1970. He later completed additional studies at the University of Kansas.

While at McPherson College, Steve met the love of his life, Sally Jane Gibson. They were married on February 2, 1969, in Ottawa, KS, and were blessed with two daughters, Mollie and Nancy.

Steve was a Certified Public Accountant and co-owner of the firm Patton, Cramer, & LaPrad Chartered. He was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church in Pratt.

A man of quiet wit, Steve enjoyed golf and proudly held the course record at Pratt Country Club. He also loved fishing and sipping on a glass of his favorite Scotch, Cutty Sark. He cherished family time and especially enjoyed taking vacations with them. He was particularly fond of his goldendoodle, Penny, and could often be found enjoying coffee with friends at Simply Southwest in Pratt.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sally LaPrad; daughters, Mollie Bretz (Michael) of Hoxie, KS and Nancy LaPrad-Rowell (Chad) of McPherson, KS; a sister, Freida Latshaw (Harry) of Rossville, IN; three grandchildren, Sam Bretz (KayCee), Drew Bretz, and Mat Bretz; and many extended relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 AM on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, on the island at Elm Mills (28 NW Main Lake Road, Sawyer, KS 67134) with lunch and fellowship with family and friends immediately following. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held at The Vert (312 S. Main St., Pratt, KS 67124). The family encourages all attendees to wear casual attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Elm Mills Recreation Corp. in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.