Steven Robert Fry

Steven Robert Fry, 71, died February 19, 2025 in Topeka.

Steve was born March 30, 1953, in Kansas City, Kan., to Lucille Elizabeth (Roulund) and Robert Dean Fry. Steve was preceded in death by his parents. Being the good brother he was, he waited at heaven’s gates on Feb. 19 to welcome his sister, Carolyn, when she passed away later the same day.

Steve grew up in in Prairie Village and was a graduate of Shawnee Mission East High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Kansas, and a legal studies certificate from Washburn University.

As a young boy he dreamed of someday being a reporter. He loved interviewing and writing stories about real people. He had a penchant for weaving in obscure, but insightful details in his articles. His interest in history, and particularly military history, was often shared through his writing.

As a career journalist, Steve primarily worked as a reporter covering spot news and courts – from state district courts in Kansas through the appellate levels. He worked many years for the Topeka Capital-Journal, and later for WIBW-TV, Channel 13. He retired in December 2020 after 49 years of reporting and never missing a deadline.

In his off hours, Steve shared his love of the outdoors with his family - hiking, bicycling, exploring Kansas, and being involved in scouting. He was an Eagle Scout. He achieved a black belt in judo and karate, and taught martial arts classes. He was extremely active in the lives of his children and granddaughters, always supporting their activities and interests. His favorite role in the world was being “Dad” and “Papa.”

Steve spent a good part of his adult life on a quest to find the world’s best cinnamon roll. He tried many, both local and across the country, and mapped out family vacations that coincidentally passed by bakeries known for their cinnamon rolls. He rarely met a cinnamon roll he didn’t like.

Steve married Anita Miller on May 26, 1979 in Topeka, and together they shared many wonderful years. Anita survives. In addition, survivors are their son, Andy Fry; daughter, Meredith Fry; and two granddaughters, Ava and Anna Fry, all of Topeka.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at First Congregational Church, Topeka. Private family graveside services will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church.

The family wishes to extend sincere gratitude to the amazing team at Homestead Assisted Living of Topeka for their care of Steve and family, and to Interim Healthcare’s hospice.