In Remembrance Of
Steve Hardesty
Steven M. Hardesty, 77, of Platte City, MO, passed away on July 21, 2026.
He was born on August 15, 1948, to Billy M. Hardesty and Deloris (Lillehaug) Hardesty in Smithville, MO. Steve grew up in Platte County, MO, and graduated from Platte City High School in 1966.
On October 10, 1981, he married the love of his life, Sandra Sue (Prater) Hardesty. Together, Steve and Sandy built a life and home in Platte City, where they shared many happy years.
Steve devoted more than 18 years to serving his community through the Central Platte Fire Department. Whether volunteering as a firefighter, leading as Fire Chief, serving on the Central Platte Fire Board of Directors, or simply lending a hand wherever he was needed, he was deeply committed to helping others. It wasn’t unusual to find him at the fire station or responding to support those in need.
As the owner and operator of Hardesty Alignment in Platte City for more than 25 years, Steve earned the trust and respect of generations of customers. Known for his skill, honesty, and attention to detail, he built a reputation that brought people from near and far seeking his expertise.
One of Steve’s greatest passions was racing. He loved the thrill of the track, and even after retiring from driving, he remained closely connected to the sport. He sponsored race cars, built one of his own, and enjoyed traveling throughout the Midwest in search of the next great dirt track race.
Retirement gave Steve the opportunity to pursue another passion—woodworking. He especially enjoyed crafting flag cases to donate to local veterans, a project that reflected both his generosity and appreciation for those who served. He also built beautiful oak furniture and was always happy to create something special for family and friends.
Steve never backed away from a challenge. In fact, the quickest way to convince him to tackle a project was to tell him it couldn’t be done. His determination, creativity, and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Terry Hardesty.
Steve is survived by his wife, Sandy; daughters Jamie (Chris) Heil and Erin (Patrick) Hupp; and his grandchildren Allie, Carter, and Lorelai.
In keeping with Steve’s wishes, he will be cremated and no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Second Creek Cemetery or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
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6 comments
May Kelley
Sandy and family, I’m so very sorry. Steve was so sweet and full of bull ha ha! You two were a good team and a big part of the Dougapaloozas (East Platte/Platte City alumni gettogethers). He kept us laughing like nobody else could. I remember people asked “why don’t you get your hip fixed?” and Sandy would say “why?” I do everything for him!” I’m so very glad to have spent alot of time with you, my friends, in these past few years. God Bless.
Dannie & Beverly Summers
We are sorry to hear about Steve’s passing. I knew him, his dad and the Ramey brothers. All of them worked at Charley Williams, which used to be the oldest front end alignment shop west of the Mississippi river, located at 2737 Cherry St. in KC. And I knew Terry too because we both drove ’70 GTO’s. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
MARSHA AND DONALD DALE
SANDY AND DAUGHTERS, SO SORRY STEVE IS NO LONGER WITH US ON EARTH BUT HE IS NOW IN HEAVEN AT PEACE WITH NO PAIN. WE WILL MISS HIM AS WE’VE KNOWN HIM FOR OVER 60 YEARS. HUGS AND PRAYERS TO YOU ALL.
Paul Grenier
Steve was the fire chief when I first started my career as a firefighter and when I started driving the fire trucks he told me “you first have to get there to do any good “ that has stuck with me my whole life every time I get in a truck or car to go somewhere that always pops in my head.
I also had the joy of being an employee for 12 years before he retired from the alignment shop,him and Sandy where some of the best people to work for, he for sure was one of the good ones and will truly be missed.
Cynthia Price Svehla
Jamie and family!
We are so sorry to hear of your father’s passing. Sending love and hugs 🤗❤️
Bill & Jo Karen Brown
Sorry …for the loss to his family and community of Platte County.