[br][br]Steve was born in Mitchell, SD to Stanley and Peggy. After a few years, he was joined by little brother Paul. Always the thoughtful older brother, he taught Paul to spell his name "S-t-u-p-i-d". He was a hard worker, using his paper route money to buy his first car at age 12. He then regularly drove the car and parked several blocks away from his house. When his dad found out, it was back to the ol' bike.
The family eventually relocated to Wichita, KS where he graduated from Wichita East. He loved football and was a walk-on at Oklahoma University. After being on the freshman team, he decided that his chances of seeing the field were slim to none. The team's loss was Phi Delta Theta's gain. He was a lifelong OU fan (Boomer Sooner!) a trait that he passed on to his children. Upon graduation, he pursued a law degree at Kansas University, where he was a member of the ROTC.
While in law school he married Suzanne McKay. After graduation, he served honorably in Vietnam as an officer in the Judge Advocate General's Corps. Per unit custom, this JAG officer spent a significant amount of time aboard a Huey as forward artillery observer and at the door. He received multiple commendations, including the Bronze Star. He later commemorated his service with a "Big Red One" tattoo for his time with the First Infantry Division.
He and Suzanne were stationed at several bases around the country before landing in Stuttgart, Germany. They loved exploring Europe and he even learned a little German "zwei Gläser Bier bitte" (two glasses of beer please). Their son, Scott, was born in Germany as a dual citizen.
He was then stationed at Ft. Carson, CO, where his daughter, Sarah, was born. He lovingly taught Sarah if she was asked about her red hair, to tell the world her daddy was an Irish Setter. Steve made a difficult decision to leave the Army he loved while at Ft. Carson to avoid frequent moves for his family.
After briefly practicing law in Wichita, KS, the family relocated to Olathe, KS. He practiced law both in private practice and at the DA's office for over 30 years. He was on speed dial for many ONHS students who got traffic tickets. In the latter part of his career, he enjoyed sitting as judge pro tempore in the juvenile court. He loved coaching his kids sports teams, hunting, and flying his plane.
In 2010 Steve moved to Spokane, WA so he could be a hands on grandpa. His grandkids could not have asked for a more doting and loving grandfather. He was their loudest cheerleader, and never missed the kid's events. Steve was involved with S.C.O.P.E., and when not busy trying to save Spokane, he had a great time playing bridge with his friends at the bridge studio.
Steve made his exit February 12, 2016, at the home of his daughter, surrounded in his last few days by his children and grandchildren. Steve was preceded in death by family Stanley, Peggy, Paul and Suzanne. He is survived by his son Scott (McLouth, KS), daughter Sarah Davis (Spokane, WA), son-in-law Joseph, cherished grandkids David, Jake, Elise and grand-dog Catie.
Per his request there will be no memorial service. We are certain he would love you to raise a margarita glass, tell a joke, and toast the unforgettable man that he was.
