Oh wow, you definitely have a ton of great stories, it seems! Have you considered writing a book filled with them? I mean, I'd read the crap out of it if it was an "official" published book. But even just having it for a family heirloom sort of thing would be pretty fantastic. It's really wonderful that your step-grandfather made sure that the kiddos were taken care of and stayed with them.
I wish I knew more about how to research for genealogy. I tried asking some family members, but ran into roadblocks so there's still so much I don't know until I learn how or have the money to use one of those services.