A year ago today, a terrible tragedy occurred in my family. My cousin Steve sadly lost his battle with mental illness, and took his own life. Today I’d like to remember Steve, not for how he died, but for how he lived.
Steve is my cousin by marriage, but in all my memory, Steve has been a part of our family. I actually have no memory of trips to Baker without Steve being involved. He was a great, big cousin to us visiting
Steve loved a good discussion. We rarely saw eye to eye, but he was a great debater, and was very passionate about what he believed in. And did Steve ever love a good, long story (which he told with the same passion he debated with)! Steve was a details man, and never forgot on iota of information. It would drive me crazy and awe me all at once. Steve could remember times, dates, amounts, and historical events like nobody I knew!
Steve was the hardest worker I’ve ever known. He could work rain or shine, and was so loyal to Christensen Electric, even toting their logo on all his clothing! He was known as a gentleman, in the building where he worked, and was admired for having a genuine goodness that is not often found.
Most importantly, Steve loved his family. Steve was a devoted father and husband. There wasn’t anything Steve wouldn’t do for his family. He was a wonderful provider, and worked so hard to make a home for them. They are his true legacy.
In all my heart, I hope that Steve has finally found his peace. I hope he is in Heaven, hanging out with Noah, discussing cubits or throwing a few horseshoes with David. Maybe he’s even found someone who likes the Farming game! That would definitely be Heaven for Steve, and we all know that game does take an eternity to play!
Lisa, Joel, Holly, Carrie, and Jenny, I love and miss you, and want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Channin
