Stephen Katona Jr.

Stephen Katona Jr., 88, of Shoshone, Idaho, passed away on July 25, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1936, in Barberton, Ohio, to Steve and Julia Katona. He grew up alongside his sister, Barb, and later moved with his family to Marshallville, Ohio, where they owned and operated a dairy farm. He also learned the trade of welding there.

Stephen married the love of his life, Judith Ann Clark, on September 14, 1957. Together they raised three children: twin sons, Cliff and Jeff, born in 1960, and their daughter Anita, born in 1974. Stephen was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1959 and proudly served his country.

In 1969, the Katona family relocated to Tucson, Arizona, where Stephen worked as a welder in the Duval Copper Mine. In 1989, they made their move to Pocatello, Idaho, where Stephen retired from the Pocatello School District. Shortly after this, the family made their final move to Shoshone, Idaho. He was a longtime member of Solid Rock Baptist Church, where he valued the fellowship and faith he found.

Stephen had a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing, and a particular fondness for 1970s and 1980s Chevy LUV trucks, owning six throughout his lifetime. He had a special place in his heart for dogs, enjoyed classic westerns with Gunsmoke being a favorite, and spent many happy days with his family at car shows and rodeos.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Judith Katona; his sons, Cliff (Susie) Katona and Jeff (Dana) Katona; his daughter, Anita (Travis) Katona-Edwards; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Julia Katona, and his sister, Barb McKendree.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Snake River Canyon National Cemetery, 1585 East Elm Street, Buhl, Idaho.

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Wilks Magic Valley Funeral Home, 2551 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls, Idaho.

Following the service, the family warmly invites all who wish to gather and share memories to a reception at the family’s home located at 12 West Huyser Drive, Shoshone, ID 83352.

Please call Cliff or Susie Katona with any questions at: Cliff - 1 (208) 293-7395 / Susie - 1 (208) 404-4381.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below.