Danny Steppe Obituary
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 27, at Smith Funeral Chapel at 315 E. Third St. in Laurel. Burial with military honors will follow at Laurel Cemetery.
Danny was born March 20, 1948, in Pratt, Kan., the son of Walter and Irene (Helsel) Steppe. He graduated from Greensburg High School and joined the Navy shortly after. He met Diana Hurst and, after three months of courting, they married Sept. 9, 1967. They moved to Virginia where Danny was stationed. Danny re-enlisted in the Navy and was stationed in Texas. They moved back to Greensburg, Kan., where Danny worked as an electrician for the Santa Fe Railroad in Dodge City, Kan. They eventually moved to Dodge City, where he continued to work for Santa Fe. Danny and his family moved to La Junta, Colo., where he was a foreman for the railroad. They finally settled in Laurel, where Danny worked as a Federal railroad investigator for 16 years.
Danny enjoyed fly fishing and hunting. He was an active Shriner and Boy Scout leader in Kansas. He also worked with the Boy Scout Koshares in Colorado.
Survivors include his wife, Diana of Laurel; his sons and daughters-in-law, Eric (Lesa) Steppe of Sultan, Wash., David Steppe of Billings, Scott (Dena) Steppe of Topeka, Kan., Justin (Christina) Steppe of Billings, Terry (JoLayne) Steppe of Billings; his only daughter and son-in-law, Dana (Russ) Hart of Sheridan, Wyo.; 13 grandchildren, Johnny Hogenson of Anchorage, Alaska, Jessica and Ryan Steppe of Sultan, Zoey and Addison Steppe of Topeka, Bethany Hart of Sheridan, Cory, Brandon, Bralynn, Bradlea, Grace, Burke and Alex Steppe, all of Billings; his mother, Irene Steppe of Pratt; and his sister, Clydie Prince of Pratt. Danny is preceded in death by his father, Walter Steppe; and his father-in-law, Thomas Hurst.
Donations can be sent to Shrine Hospital For Crippled Children, PO Box 20673, Billings, MT 59104.
This obituary was originally published in the Billings Gazette.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Carmen Entin
December 15, 2021
I still keep his name and address in the “ S “ in my address book. I always enjoyed our correspondence.
Carmen Entin
December 15, 2019
I still have Dans address in my address book. I think of him every time I go to the S . Never met him but enjoyed writing back-and-forth.
David Brooks
December 16, 2008
I think of Dan often....I truly miss him, his dry humor and his professionalism here at FRA. I pray that all the family is doing well especially Di. You all are still in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and hope you all have a "Super 2009"....Take Care and Be Blessed....DWB...
Cat triller
December 15, 2008
I think of Dan "the man" often, and miss his spirit. His passing was the inspiration for a piece of prose that is now on the memorial page on the Still's site. He made me laugh, he made my life richer having him in it!
I'm sorry that the Memorial page..Legacy, will no longer be here to visit.
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Patricia Boerner
December 15, 2008
The spirit is an ironic thing to me because I was thinking of Dan tonight while sitting at my computer and of course remembering him and missing him because there wasn't anyone to visit with and it's coming upon a year of his passing. Then when I couldn't sleep I got up and went back online and found the email that says on the 20th the guest book will close. I have tears for the second time because it feels like he may somehow be lost again. I want you to know that he isn't lost in my heart as I think of him so often sitting at my computer and as he comes across my photos screen saver in his alien hat. Please accept my love of you his family through my friendship with him. Melly
February 20, 2008
When a man passes from this life, into another
there becomes a tear in time~
No longer does the man's spirit hold light
and dark at bay~
Suddenly, the light and shadow become one, and
the man's spirit is no more~
For us, left on this plane, we sense the empty
space, and know of the spirit's passing~
Each time his countenance enters our minds, each moment we
spend recalling his smile, his voice, his walk~
For those precious moments, the void fills
with his spirit~
And he walks the earth once more, in our minds
our hearts and always our souls~
We who mark his passing are spared
no pain~
The emptiness is all around us, we wait for his
step, his voice, his return~
And when it does not come, we ache
a little more~
There are no words to make the pain abate, only
day turning to night, and day again~
When the edges of the pain grow dull,
with time~
I ask that all of you remember him today,
and some of your tomorrows~
And allow his spirit to walk among us,
even for a little while~
Bruce Sims
January 2, 2008
Diana: Danny's death was a shock and a great loss in my life. Thanks for accepting and reading my brief eulogy at Danny's service. Sharing my memories and love of Danny with others helps bring closure. God be with you and family as you find strength through this loss. Wonderful to read everyone's memories of Danny. I will greatly miss my cider drinking buddy!
Tommy Helsel
December 28, 2007
To Diana,the basketball team, and cheerleader and all they added to your bunch.
I am so sorry about Dan, he was so much fun at the air races, and wherever you met with him. I can tell you he was one special cuz to me. We had a lot of fun through the years, and I will miss him very much. Please keep in touch.
Cousin Tom in Kansas
Van Jones
December 27, 2007
Diana and Steppe Family,
Our deepest sympathies go out to you for your loss. Dan will be sorely missed by all that crossed paths with him. A real genuine person no doubt about it! We'll miss shooting the breeze with him about the railroad.
On behalf of all the MRL/ BN Carmen in Laurel, Montana
Bighorn Divide Railroad
December 27, 2007
To Dan's Family, As with many others, we have never met the family but wanted you to know what a wonderful man he was. He was one of the first inspectors we met and was always so helpful and ready to teach. Always a smile and a kind word were part of his persona. He was not only a great professional associate but many of us grew to call him "friend". We only hope he knew how much we respected him and his expertise. We will miss him and his help. Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you.
Sharon and Steve Curnett
December 26, 2007
Dearest Di and family, I can't tell you how our hearts broke when you called to tell us of Dan passing. He brought such joy and happiness to us and especially to Steve. Their trips to the Reno Air Races were always followed by Dan calling Steve and telling him how many days, hours, and minutes were left till next year. We will miss him beyond belief. Our prayers are with you Di and with you family.
Leon Smith
December 26, 2007
I'am deeply sorrowed by your loss, Dan touched the hearts of anyone who met him in a very special way. He will truly be missed by many of us who worked closely with him. Sincerely, Leon
STEVE CLAY
December 26, 2007
DAN STEPPE, A GENUINE FRIEND FROM THE VERY FIRST MOMENT WE MET.-----
"HAPPY TRAILS"
David Cook
December 26, 2007
Di
I was deeply sadden when I received an e-mail from Dennis Neumann. Our friendship from GHS, motorcycle riding, together at Navy Boot Camp, at your wedding in 67, and the years after was always there. I cannot express my sorrow and the deep loss I feel. Mine and Beths thoughts and prayers are with you, the children and all the family there and in Kansas. Keep us advised.
Jim & Ruthanne Garrett
December 25, 2007
Diana & Family
I am sorry for your loss.We have been out of town, and only today did we receive the news of Dannys passing.
Danny & I had a very nice visit at our class reunion and the one thing that I will always remember was Danny's sense of humor. He could always make you laugh.
Again, I am sorry for your (and our)loss. You are certainly in our thoughts and prayers.
Ray Moran
December 25, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the the Steppe Family at this sad time. Dan will be missed. I always enjoyed our shared Railraod Stories.
Cat Triller
December 24, 2007
Dan "the man" was a wonderful human being. He would come to "chat" at the Stills Disease Chatroom, and help turn it into a wonderfully funny, warm and lively place. He and I shared many stories. Fly fishing was one of our favorite things to rag each other about.
I can't believe that he no longer walkes the earth with us. I bet he's in heaven watching over his family and friends.
My life has been made richer by knowing him.
Bob Himes
December 24, 2007
I met Dan "Choo Choo" through our Stills Disease Group a bunch of years ago in our chat room at first and then in our forums.Dan had a way of always cheering everyone up be it with a joke or just kind words. I remember many times when Dan and I were the only ones in the chat room and had some really good conversations about our Familyswhich we both admitted to loving very much. Yes he was a family man. Dan was a fine man who was always willing to help someone out if he could and he complained very little about his own illness. Since he and I were very close in age we had a lot in common and he will surely be missed by me. My prayers and condolences are with you his Family in your time of grieving. Bless you1
Linda Davis
December 24, 2007
I went to school with Danny and he was such a good person. He made you laugh and always had that big smile. I am so sorry to hear about his death. May God Bless you and keep you in his realm always. Linda Reed Davis.
Doug Vincent
December 24, 2007
Dear Diana, Eric, Scott, David, Justin, Terry, Dana and family - I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Danny.
Having practically grown up in your home in Dodge I have many fond memories of Dan. He had a great way about him of teaching others and generally it was quite humorous. The last time that I was with him we were shooting beer cans and talking about Eric getting out of the service and what the other kids were up to. Dan was always very proud of his family. His loss is felt by all that he influenced during his time with us.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Doug Vincent
Patricia (Mellymelt) Boerner
December 24, 2007
I met Dan through our Still's disease group about 6 years ago. We became such good friends and used to email on a daily basis sharing laughter in every conversation. We had many jokes with other members but one in particular was about aliens taking our mail into cyber space. Dan would say if he had on a foil hat the Aliens couldn't find him, so I made Dan a colander space hat and sent it to him. He sent me a picture wearing that colander so the aliens couldn't find him when he had it on. Cracked me up!! That was just the sort of silliness that he was able to share and lighten our days of pain. We joked about so many things. Choo Choo was one of the names we used to call him, and he coined the phrase white coat in the group for seeing the doctor. I cannot tell you how many people's lives he touched literally around the world within the Still's group and he will be lovingly in my heart forever as a dear friend. Melly
Carmen Entin
December 24, 2007
Dear Diana,
I met Dan through the "Stills Foundaation" quite a few years ago and we have been e-mailing ever since. I've received many pictures of your family and updates on them also. I am so sorry to learn of his passing and will miss his e-mails and online friendship. My condolences to you and your family.
Charley Bennett
December 23, 2007
Dan was an excellent FRA person and a good friend. He will be missed. Our sympathies to the family.
Machinists Local Lodge 509
Glendive MT
Gaylon Albright
December 23, 2007
Diana & children
Gaylon & I were deeply shocked & saddened to hear of Dan's passing. He was a great friend & a very special person; he will be greatly missed by his family, friends, & anyone who ever had the opportunity to meet him. Know that you all are in our thoughts & prayers at this very difficult time.
Linda Varner
December 23, 2007
Diane,
We met years and years ago. I was a classmate of Danny's and I want you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ken Naylor
December 22, 2007
Diana & family,
It was with great sorrow that I learned about the passing of Dan. I cannot express how much Dan meant to me and the rest of his co-workers in the Billings’ office, and throughout the FRA. Even though I left the Billings office, in August of 2005, to come to Washington Dan and I would speak from time to time via phone or e-mail messages. Our last phone conversation centered on future fishing trips upon our mutual retirements from the agency. When I was in the Billings office often times Dan and I would set in the office after the work day was done and talk as only friends can. I feel like I lost a brother!
We all lost a special person with the passing of Dan, a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, co-worker, and I and others a wonderful friend. Our hearts goes out to you and the family and if there is anything I or my family can do; please let us know.
My God bless and keep each of you.
Ken Naylor and family,
or as Dan always referred to me “Chief Two Feathers”
Carmen Renfrow
December 22, 2007
We haven't met, but Danny was a friend in High School. I have fond memories of him; he was a gentleman, shy and and funny at the same time. I can't believe he's gone; in the blink of an eye. From his obituary, I see he continued to be a wonderful person. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Carmen (Obenchain) Renfrow, Greensburg, KS
Betty Jo Russell
December 22, 2007
Diana, We were so shocked to hear about Danny. Our hearts go out to you and your family. We will remember our times in high school,scouting,and different places around the country we did get togeather. He will be missed by all. You are all in our prayers. Mike and Betty Jo Russell
Michael & Carol Montgomery
December 21, 2007
Could not believe it when I heard about Danny. Always remembered our adventures in high school and enjoyed see him again when he moved back to Greensburg. We met you and your boys in La Junta on one of our scout trips. Always liked hearing his stories when we would get together at our class reunions. Our prayers are with you and the kids.
Mike & Carol Montgomery
Stephen Carullo
December 21, 2007
Through these trying times Dan is now at his resting place where he is welcomed and taking care by those who love him.
My sincere regret for your loss.
Harry Noland
December 21, 2007
Sorry to hear about Danny...were class mates in greensburg.. i wish the best for Danny's family. i have spent most of my time in alaska after high school so have had lettle contact with friends. May Danny's spirit be blessed with all things good.
Jack Hazard
December 21, 2007
Dan will be missed by all those he has touched. Not only was he knowledgeable and fair in his Federal Inspector position but proved to be a wonderful friend as well. I will fondly remember him along with the many lifes experiences and ideals we shared over the years.
Jack Hazard - Retired
Montana Rail Link
Mechanical Dept.
Helena, MT
Larry Jones
December 21, 2007
Diana, my deepest sympathy to you and your children in the loss of Dan. I have fond memories of him, his friendship and his help.
Danny Whitt
December 21, 2007
I knew Dan for several years, and always enjoyed conversations with him when we would meet at the various FRA functions. I especially enjoyed talking aviation subjects including the Reno Air Races. I will miss that. I know he will be missed by all in FRA that ever associated with him. My deepest sympathy and prayers goes out to his family.
Tony Moler
December 21, 2007
I will miss Dan greatly in the Billings FRA office. Dan brought humor and common sense thinking where ever he went. I am so thankful to have gotten to know him and I am proud to have called him my friend. I will miss him.
Jim Gaskell
December 21, 2007
Diana & Family ~
I met Dan at the Roundhouse in Laurel. I enjoyed visiting with him when ever he stopped by. Diana I miss working with you also at Western-Snyders Drug My Condolences and thoughts are with you all with your loss.
Jim Gaskell
Havre Car Department BNSF Mechanical
December 21, 2007
Dan will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Family.
December 21, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kevin Cash
FRA Hazmat - Detroit
Dave Williams
December 21, 2007
My deepest condolences to the Steppe family. I worked with Dan for all the years that he visited Havre. He will be missed.
Dave Williams
Retired Carman Local Chairman
Havre, MT
William (Bill) Chisholm
December 21, 2007
Dan will be missed by his many friends in the FRA.
Grady Cothen
December 21, 2007
Our most sincere sympathies to all of Dan's family and friends. Dan was one of the Federal Railroad Administration's finest colleagues, and he will live in our memory as an outstanding person. But we will miss his great smile and wise counsel.
Larry Ewing
December 21, 2007
I am truly sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you.
Dan was a great person and a very good friend. He was always full of laughter and brought joy to those who knew him. He loved his family very much and he let the world know it. I will miss him.
David Brooks
December 21, 2007
Dan was a dear friend and will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Di and the rest of the Steppe family. What a special couple and wonderful family. I would like to think that Dan is showing folks how to tie flies on the other side..God Bless...D.W. Brooks
Erich Rudolph
December 21, 2007
Steppe Family - on behalf of the Executive Committee and members of AFGE Local 2814, please accept our deepest condolences. We also mourn the loss of our brother.
Erich Rudolph, Local President
Ronald Newman
December 21, 2007
FRA Region 8 MP&E Team:
We join Jo Strang in expression of our deepest sympathy for the loss of a Region 8 stalwart. Neither the FRA, rail industry, state of Montana or Billings will ever be the same.
Dan was always a “man of his word”, a regulatory “straight-shooter” and a “close friend” of all of the headquarters MP&E Division staff.
Thanks for passing along the arrangement details.
Ron Newman 12/20/2007
Staff Director Motive Power and Equipment (MP&E) Division
Federal Railroad Administration
Craig & Deb Clarke
December 21, 2007
Accept our condolences during this time of sorrow. Dan's large and loving family can only be a blessing during this difficult time.
Dawn (Taylor) Klein
December 21, 2007
Diana, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Chris & Patty Schaal
December 21, 2007
Diana and family, Having known Dan over the last 40 years has been a blessing in our lives. His friendship and his devotion to all of you has been an inspiration to many and he will be remembered in a special way by all. Peace be with you at this holiday season. The gift of Dan to all of us is the love he shared with those along the path of life. May he rest in the arms of the loving God.
Peace and love, Chris & Patty Schaal
Joe and Lisa Yedlicka
December 21, 2007
Diana and the Whole Family,
You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
May the Lord Guide and Protect You All.
December 21, 2007
I am very sorry for your lose. He was a good man. I will miss his visits to Havre. carman Cliff
Cory's Aunt Susan Anderson
December 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
December 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
JC, Kindra, John and Hannah Hogenson
December 20, 2007
Justin,
You and your family are in our thoughts during this hard time. Take care.
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