Tanner Loyd Stichka, 33, passed away in Springfield, Missouri on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. Tanner was born May 8, 1988 in Scottsbluff, Nebraska to Richard and Tonya D. (Lessman) Stichka. He received his education in the Bridgeport Schools, graduating with the Class of 2007 where he excelled on the varsity basketball team. Tanner earned Associates Degrees in Construction, Architectural Design, and Drafting from Central Community College in Hastings, NE.
In all of Tanner’s jobs he demonstrated an amazing work ethic and respect for both the work and the people. During his most recent job as a transporter at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri he found his passion for helping and comforting those in need. He won several hospital accommodations in his short tenure and was one of the most highly valued transporters on the team.
Outside of work, Tanner deeply cared for his family and anyone else who needed him. Tanner’s one true love is his dog Zeke who was his steadfast companion when the rest of his world continued to change. Tanner was a sportsman who loved hunting, basketball, softball, and golf. He enjoyed hanging out with his friends and treasured his moments immersing himself in long country drives listening to his favorite music.
Tanner is survived by his parents Rich and Tonya Stichka; sister Randi “Shorty” Stichka; grandmother Pat Stichka, grandfather LaMond Lessman; Aunt Cheryl, Uncle Dave, and Aunt Holly, as well as many more special aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Tanner was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Joseph Stichka; maternal grandmother Ellen Lessman, Uncle Lenard Stichka, and Godfather Uncle Bill Borges.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 PM on Friday, July 23, 2021 at Bridgeport Memorial Chapel. A Celebration Of Life Service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Prairie Winds Community Center in Bridgeport with Pastor Jonathan Seng officiating. The service will be livestreamed on the Bridgeport Memorial Chapel facebook page. Burial will follow at the Dalton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Morrill County Hospital Foundation (put “Tanner Stichka Memorial” in memo line). These funds will support mental health and addiction services. Online condolences may be left at www.bridgeportmemorialchapel.com
