Steven Paul Blanchette

EUGENE, Ore. - Steven Paul Blanchette, 26, of Eugene, Oregon, formerly of Rapid City, died February 10 in his home. Steve was born in Rapid City on October 21, 1978, to Mike and LuAnne (Ruff) Blanchette. He was the youngest of 3 boys. Steve attended Grandview Elementary School, South Middle School, Central High School and earned his G.E.D. in 1999. Growing up in Rapid City, Steven was involved in many organizations including Rapid City Youth Soccer League, Rushmore Soccer Club, Harney Little League and the Cub Scouts of America. Steve was also a proud member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Steve was an amazing person who cared very much for Mother Earth and his fellow man. Steve had an undying love for animals - especially his dogs Bandit, Otis and Rasta and his cats Tequila, Shirley Bruce, Mama, Joe and Little Lupe. Steve loved the Black Hills. Whether it was camping, hiking, cliff jumping, or hanging out, Steve was at home in the Hills. Steve had numerous talents including cooking, gardening and entertaining his friends and family with his quick wit, impressions and jokes. Before his death, he had renewed his interest in art. His painting is currently on exhibit at the Firehouse Studio in Eugene. Steve worked at Casa del Rey and several other restaurants in Rapid City. Steve and Sarah Kron were married in 2000. Following their divorce in 2002, he moved to Eugene. Steven was very happy living in Eugene for the past 3 years. He was surrounded and loved by many friends. Steve worked as a chef and waiter at the Keystone Cafe in Eugene where he served many celebrities and was often requested. He very much enjoyed his job and his co-workers. He became an avid basketball fan and closely followed the Oregon Ducks. He loved the Portland "Jailblazers," win or lose, on the court or in court. Steven is survived by his special friend Layla Ulam, Eugene, OR; parents Mike Blanchette, Rapid City, and LuAnne and Rick Schurger of Rapid City; brothers Christopher, Rapid City, Sean and Charis, Fort Pierre; grandmother Charlotte Ruff, Kadoka; nephews Ivan, Domenick, Riley and Coby; many aunts, uncles and cousins, and friends too numerous to mention. He is preceded in death by Grandpa Paul Ruff, Grandparents James and Lila Blanchette, Uncle Joe Ruff and Uncle Fred Ruff. His precious memory and beautiful spirit will be with us forever. Visitation will be at Kirk Funeral Home on Thursday, February 17, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral Services will be on Friday, February 18, at 12:00 Noon at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral with a luncheon to follow in the Cathedral Hall. A memorial has been established to the Humane Society of the Black Hills. Friends may sign Steven's guest book at www.kirkfuneralhome.com.