Stephen C. Payne, 66, of Oneida, died Thursday, February 18, 2021, at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas.

 Steve was born July 29, 1954, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to Arthur L. and Julia B. Payne, both of whom preceded him in death. Upon graduation from high school, he joined the US Air Force, where he began a lifelong career in health care. His service included being injured in the Vietnam War. He finished his service stateside including Topeka Air Force Base and Little Rock Air Force Base. As a civilian, he worked in a variety of hospital settings.

 On January 3, 1986, he married Alice Ann Olberding in Seneca. They met in nursing school while attending Kaw Valley Vocational School in Topeka. Both earned Licensed Practical Nurse degrees.

 Steve and Alice Payne were together 27 years before her passing on April 1, 2013. They enjoyed many activities together, including camping, hunting, fishing, and taking family cruises.

 He is survived by his sister, Sylvia M. Payne, of Indianapolis, Indiana.

 A graveside funeral service will be held at 10 A.M. on Wednesday, March 10.  Burial will be in the Oneida Cemetery With Military Honors.

 Memorials may be given to Canine Companions for Independence [https://www.cci.org/donate/] — a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of children, adults, and veterans with disabilities by providing highly trained service dogs at no charge to the recipient.