It's fixed. Thanks for all the help, Here is how it was fixed. Background first: found out the entry door magnetic switches that REV and Lippert gave me part numbers for were incorrect. They were contact switches only with no electronic function internal to the switch. That's why the step would extend/retract when door opened/closed, but wouldn't stay out with door closed or retract when ignition was on.
Mystery solved. The correct switch for my coach is part# 16622748 Desc: SWITCH DOOR ENTRY .75 MAGNETIC WHITE. As soon as I installed that switch everything worked exactly like it was supposed to.