Steve often described his childhood as a wonderful one. He played sports and enjoyed fishing with his grandfather. Some of his fondest memories were water skiing and camping every summer at the Colorado River with his family.
Steve always liked school and especially enjoyed reading. He was very outgoing and was the class clown, which is no surprise to those that knew him. His sense of humor was one of his greatest gifts. Steve was interested in all kinds of sports and played baseball throughout his high school career at Millikan.
Steve joined the Army serving in Germany and then volunteering to serve in Vietnam. He achieved the rank of Specialist Five E-5 before receiving his honorable discharge. Upon his return home, he went to college earning a degree in Horticulture. Steve had several city jobs before he settled permanently at Arco/BP Refinery in 1987. His most recent position was that of an Operator.
Steve married the love of his life, Janet, in 1996. Together, they built a life centered on God and on family. They loved going to the movies, playing cards, camping, antique shopping to add to Steve's prized salt and pepper shaker collection, and traveling to Hawaii, their favorite vacation spot.
The greatest joy and blessing of Steve and Janet's union, was the adoption of their daughter, Savannah Grace, in 2007. Savannah was the light of Steve's life. He was a very hands-on father, completely devoted to raising her with laughter, love, and security. One of his favorite things to do was bring Savannah to the music store with his best friend, Lee. Steve was determined to instill in Savannah the same love of music that he had.
On his off time, Steve also enjoyed playing golf and gardening. He could spend hours in the garden which brought him great joy. He had a gift for landscaping, which was evident in his beautiful rose garden.
Steve was a very happy person who loved life. He was a hard-worker and a wonderful provider. He is best known for his sense of humor, his humility, and his kindness to others. To those who met him for the first time, he was no longer a stranger but a friend. As one of those close friends has described him, "Steve worked more than he rested, gave more than he took, loved more than he hated, and touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He was a great man and will be truly missed." These are the memories that will be cherished by all who were blessed enough to have known Steve. These are his lasting legacies...humor, kindness, concern for others, and above all, love.
After the clouds, the sunshine,
after the winter, the spring,
after the shower, the rainbow,
for life is a changeable thing.
After the night, the morning,
bidding all darkness cease,
after life's cares and sorrows,
the comfort and sweetness of peace.
Helen Steiner Rice
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