In loving memory of Steven Gerard Sanneman, a dedicated civil servant and beloved husband, father, son, brother and hero. Steve passed away on July 7, 2024, in Smithville, Missouri, after a five week battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. His diagnosis was determined to be a cause as a result of his profession and recognized as a line of duty death. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and service that will forever be remembered.
Born on October 30, 1971, in St. Louis, Missouri, he led a life full of compassion and humor. From his early days growing up in St Louis to his graduation from St. John Vianney High School in Kirkwood, Missouri, he always showed a spark that set him apart. He was a competitive swimmer, competing in his younger years. And as the student becomes the teacher, he also taught swimming lessons at the YMCA.
His thirst for knowledge led him to paramedic school, marking the beginning of a career dedicated to serving others. His heroism spanned three decades, with the first ten years spent in St. Louis before he made his home in the Kansas City area. Settling in Liberty for the following twenty years, he was a strong shoulder for countless individuals in their darkest hours. Known affectionately as "Sandman" among his colleagues, Steve's impact extended far beyond his work at the department. As a Pediatric Advance Life Support instructor and recipient of the prestigious Medal of Valor from the governor, his commitment to saving lives knew no bounds. He selflessly served on rescue missions in West Plains, embodying bravery in the face of adversity. Outside of his service to the Liberty Fire Department, Steve was dedicated to providing peer support counseling, specifically focusing on PTSD in first responders.
Steve's vibrant personality brought light into the lives of all who knew him. He had an infectious presence that could brighten any room and a penchant for humor that left a lasting impression. A true aficionado of music and movies, he possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of quotes and lyrics that never failed to impress.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve found joy in being an adult leader for the Boy Scouts and an Honored Warrior in the Mic-O-Say Tribe. His passion for nature led him to cherish moments camping and hiking in the mountains—activities that brought him peace and fulfillment.
His love for his family knew no bounds; he shared an unbreakable bond with his wife Lisa Sanneman and her son Henry. He leaves behind his daughter Quinlynn Sanneman; father Ronald Sanneman; mother Mary Anne Sanneman; sisters Terri (Mike) Rosso, Nancy VonderHaar, Patty (Mark) Rosen; nieces and nephews Matt (Jenn), Jamie, Chris (Esther), Trish (Mark), Mike, Tori, Tyler; beloved dogs Royce and Remi.
A visitation will be held on July 12th at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The next morning on Saturday, July 13 his Funeral Service will begin at 9:00 AM, also at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Immediately following, Steve will be taken in procession by Liberty Fire Department Pumper 3, passing by his Fire Station 3, to New Hope Cemetery in Liberty for a graveside service with full Fire Fighter Honors.
In honoring Steven Gerard Sanneman's memory, let us carry forward his legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering dedication to serving others: donations in Steve’s name may be made to WorldWide Peer Support at https://www.worldwidepeersupport.org/copy-of-partners. Though he may have left this world too soon, his spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
