Steve Buffam

Steven Paul Buffam left this earth to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025, undoubtedly greeted with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Born on Feb. 4, 1954, in Portland, Ore.,, to Patricia and David Buffam Sr., Steve was the second of four children. He graduated from Newberg High School in 1972, and when offered the choice between college assistance or a car, he chose the car, then promptly enlisted in the United States Air Force.
After boot camp in San Antonio, Texas, Steve served in Rome, N.Y., before being stationed in Shemya, Alaska, where, as he liked to tell it, he "was given a rifle and a helmet and told to wait for the Russians." He later completed his service at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana and was honorably discharged in 1976.
Returning home, Steve joined his father at Total Logistics Resources (TLR) and began a career that would span nearly half a century. From his first job as a courier to his eventual role as owner, CEO, and Chairman of the Board, Steve led the company with integrity and a deep sense of purpose. He grew the company into a respected, globally recognized firm known for its integrity and excellence.
Though his work took him to many parts of the world, his most important journey began at a company picnic in 1979, where he met the love of his life, Luann Clark. He showed up in white snakeskin cowboy boots, and she was washing her Mercury Capri in her bikini. For Steve, it was love at first sight. They married on Jan. 17, 1981, at a drive-through chapel in Reno, Nev. Their "reception" featured popcorn, and they famously hid their wedding gift, a single $100 bill, under the mattress for safekeeping that night.
From those humble beginnings, Steve and Luann built a life they loved. They raised their three children, Clark Buffam, Chase Buffam, and Noelle Thuillier, on a five-acre farm where family was at the center of everything.
Steve and Luann loved being together, whether they were traveling to Hawaii or sitting at home enjoying each other's company. Some of their happiest days were spent at Luann's family ranch in Bickleton, Wash., a place Steve loved and where he could live out his cowboy dreams, hat and all.
Whether they were working side by side, raising kids, or relaxing on the porch after a long day, they never stopped choosing each other. They always said they wanted their epitaph to read, "We had fun," and they truly did.
Above all, Steve was a family man, a fierce provider, a loyal protector, and a steady source of wisdom. His faith guided every step of his life, and he devoted much of his time and heart to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was the kind of man who quietly made the world better, not through grand gestures, but through integrity, grit, and a steady love that never wavered.
His absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of those who loved him, including his family, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him through his work and ministry.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Luann Clark Buffam; their three children, Clark Johnston Buffam, Chase Jameson Buffam, and Noelle Buffam Thuillier; and his cherished grandchildren, Calvin Robert Buffam, Frankie Thuillier, George Jameson Buffam, and Jesse Clark Buffam, He is also survived by his older brother, David Buffam Jr., and his younger sisters, Leslie Graham and Janis Buffam, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members who were dear to him.
A service with military honors will be held on Monday, Nov. 3, at 10 a.m. at Bickleton Evangelical Community Church (212 S Monroe St, Bickleton, WA 99322.) All who wish to honor him are welcome. Burial will follow at the Bickleton I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Bickleton, WA. Those wishing to sign Steve's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com
Memorial contributions can be made to North Coast Family Fellowship, Bickleton Evangelical Community Church, or Union Gospel Mission's Lifechange ministry.