Born in Chanute KS in 1963, Stephanie spent her late teen years travelling to Russia and Europe on student exchange programs where she was a prominent opera singer, even later singing at esteemed Carnegie Hall. After attending Kansas University and upon graduating a BA program at Emporia State University, Emporia KS, Stephanie briefly worked in the hospitality industry for Hilton Hotels in Kansas City, MO and Destin, FL. In addition, Stephanie and her husband were concurrently involved in the single-family rental home business in Ocean Springs, MS for 15 years.
Stephanie was truly a beautiful, one-of-a-kind person with an infectious smile and demeanor that would light up any room she entered. Being politically opinionated, she made no bones about telling you her viewpoint, but she was the kind of person that loved you and respected your opinion, no matter what your political stipe. It was in fact, one of her finest qualities. For many years, she and her husband Dan (aka Chopper) were widely known in the motorcycle-riding community, where on any weekend, you would find them doing charitable rides in the countryside for those in need. In addition to her passion for motorcycling, Stephanie was a huge dog lover, adopting seven pets during her lifetime. Among the pets of her friends, she was known as “Neffie Mama” and always had treats stashed in her car or pockets. No dog was a stranger.
A dedicated and loving military spouse, Stephanie accompanied her husband on career assignments to Keesler AFB, MS, Scott AFB, IL, and Offutt AFB, NE. No matter where they landed, they were quick to find friends and immerse into local community events.
Stephanie is survived by her husband, Daniel E. Choplick, Jr. Belleville IL;
her mother, Jane Burns, Prairie Village, KS;
a brother, Daren Burns, Overland Park, KS;
a sister, Natalie Burns, Overland Park, KS;
brother-in-law, David Alexander, Overland Park, KS;
mother-in-law, Anne Choplick, Mt. Carmel, PA;
stepson, Nicholas Choplick and daughter-in-law Paula, Perryville, MD;
and grandchildren, Max and Gwen, Perryville, Md.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to the Belleville Area Humane Society, 1301 South 11th Street, Belleville, IL. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Funeral: There will be a celebration of life on Friday, May 13, 2022, at the League Lounge, 1501 West Main St, Belleville beginning at 4 PM. Later, a small family interment will be held in Chanute, KS.