He is survived by his wife Julie of 55 years; sister Susan Gunderson and brother Peter Riley; sons Michael (Kelley) and Neil (Stephanie); grandchildren Taylor, Matthew, William, Carolyn, and Emma the English Setter.
Steve grew up in Edina and Wayzata, MN, where he played the game he loved, Hockey. He graduated from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management with a business degree in 1968.
That same year Steve was drafted into the Army and proudly served for 7 years. He attained the rank of Captain in the 101st Airborne Division. With assignments in Ft. Benning (GA), Ft. Campbell (KY), and Daegu, Korea, he and Julie were graced with many lifelong friends along the way.
Following an honorable discharge, he began a successful career in the agriculture industry with Atwood Larson, Con-Agra, and Bluebonnet Feed. Steve in his final venture served as co-founder and COO of Triple Crown Nutrition, Inc., a market leading producer of premium horse feed based in Wayzata, MN.
During retirement, Steve and Julie moved to Lake Namakagon, WI, where they lived for 15 years. They then migrated south and ultimately settled full-time in Marco Island, FL. Steve greatly enjoyed boating, fishing, time with friends, and walking their setters.
Steve will be remembered for his love of family, dogs, and the outdoors. He was truly in his element hunting the Northwoods, or fly-fishing the wild rivers of Colorado, Montana, and Wisconsin. He will be greatly missed as a true companion, brother, father, grandfather, and forever patriot.
Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Marco Island, FL, February 17th, 2024.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Trout Unlimited, or the Wild Rivers Conservancy.
