Kenneth Steve Sifferman

Kenneth Steve "Kenny" Sifferman, 78, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, following an unexpected severe reaction two weeks after his first immunotherapy treatment for lung cancer. An exceptionally tough human and a notoriously hard worker, Kenny lived his life with an unstoppable work ethic and a deep, genuine joy for every single day.

Kenny was born in Springfield, Missouri, on October 5, 1947. He grew up on a farm in Mt. Vernon Missouri and graduated from Mt. Vernon High School with the Class of 1965, later earning his Associate Degree in electronics.On December 26, 1970, Kenny was united in marriage to the absolute love of his life, Sharon Lechner. Together, they shared 55 beautiful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, dedication, and family, and raising their two daughters, Tracy and Shelly.

Kenneth was a lifelong Christian whose life was defined by a profound love for the Lord. As a devout Catholic, he found great joy and strength in his faith, the sacraments, and the church community. Kenny’s work ethic was unmatched. He gave 28 dedicated years to Zenith and later retired from his career as a biomedical technician for the Cox Health System. But Kenny never truly stopped working. Whether tending to his family farm, taking on endless odd jobs, or volunteering his time, he was always on the move. He constantly found ways to stay busy, dedicating his endless energy to providing for the people he loved.To say Kenneth LOVED his LIFE would be an understatement. He found absolute happiness in the world around him. He loved traveling, especially hitting the open road in his RV, embarking on cruises with his friends, and taking unforgettable trips with his brothers and daughters. He cherished the time spent with his friends in the valley, but he was equally content just sitting on his deck, looking out over the open fields, and counting the deer.

A man of many passions, Kenny loved playing cards and games, and his sharp mind made him excellent at trivia. He enjoyed catching ball games, attending concerts, farming, tilling the land, and hunting for treasures at garage sales, swap meets, and buying and selling markets. Above all, Kenny was a master storyteller who loved nothing more than sharing his rich life experiences with anyone lucky enough to listen. His family, especially his grand children and great-grandchildren were his ultimate pride and joy.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Ruby Sifferman, his sister-in-law, Christine Sifferman, and many dear friends. 

Kenny is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharon Sifferman; his devoted children, Tracy Voyles and her husband Mark, and Shelly Kitchen and her husband Chris; his cherished grandchildren, Kyleigh Voyles and Stephen Michalsen, Jaxon Voyles, and his wife Courtney; and his precious great-grandchildren, Sophie Voyles and Oliver Voyles. He (9) also leaves behind his brothers, Roger Sifferman (6), and Scott Sifferman (3) and his wife Debbie, alongside numerous beloved nieces, nephews, a lifetime of wonderful friends, and his little dog Freddie.

Memorial Services

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, located at 1115 N. Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65802 under the care of Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home. Directly following the service, family and friends are warmly invited to a visitation and lunch in the church school auditorium to eat, share stories, and celebrate Kenny’s remarkable life.