Another fallen modeler. RIP Ivan Steppenik

[Steve Keck]

A portion of his obiturary:

Ivan Steppenik passed away March 31’st after a long illness. …..retired nuclear reactor designer most famous for his design of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. in San Clemente, California…inspired by his long time friend, D. R. Parton.

Ivan was best known among his close friends for his scale modeling skills. To his associates he was a closet modeler best known for his love of Chevrolets. His most famous work was his inspiration to create a diorama of every convertible Chevrolet produced. He is also remembered for his famous “Barn Find†diorama ruse that fooled experts for years before Ivan finally confessed. To his closest friends, Ivan was a closet modeler who abhorred competition. He loved modeling for its artistry.

Ivan had recently come out of retirement to assist an associate in refining his invention that would revolutionize scale modeling allowing anyone with rudimentary chemical knowledge the ability to create chrome plated parts in their kitchen sink.

Ivan felt most honored for his modeling skills when Lego convinced him to create a scale model of the Grand Canyon at Lego Land in Carlsbad, California. Ivan was working on his largest diorama when he passed away. Lego Land has decided to leave his work unfinished in his honor.

RIP, Ivan.

[my80malibu]

My condolences on the loss of Ivan. Could anyone post some pictures of some of his work?

[Eshaver]

What a story ! I've heard the name but I sure as heck never wouldda ever known about his other endevors . Somebody should do at least a feature story on the Chevrolets anyway . Ed Shaver

[Dave in Seattle]

Ummmm.....You guys ARE aware of today's date right?

[Scale-Master]

This is the part of growing old I hate, (and it sadly is only going to continue to accelerate as we all age), seeing the most talented builders pass on and take a bit of this hobby with them forever. Never met the man in person, only knew of him and was duly impressed with his work and humbled by his anti-competition ethic. We all could learn something from life of Ivan. Today I feel I’ve lost a little piece of my modeling soul, as has our hobby. R.I.P. and Godspeed Mr. Steppenik

[chebbysteve]

Dolly Parton?

[stevehansen]

Must of had an understanding wife that would allow chrome plating in the kitchen sink. Can we find the chrome plating recipe on the world wide web?

[Guest Gramps-xrds]

Never met the man, but it sounds like I would have liked him. I would love to see his article about chrome plating in the sink. If anyone has a link or info please post it. It would be fitting to keep something of him alive and in use.

[disabled modeler]

My condolences to Ivan's family and friends, now he is building for a higher power. Mark

[sjordan2]

Ummmm.....You guys ARE aware of today's date right?

[el Presidente]

Thru many checks of various internet searchs I could find no referance nor any Obits for one Ivan Steppenik. I would say it's a good April 1 story. Set the drag a little looser next time to play the fish a little longer