Kenneth Steiner

SHERIDAN - Kenneth Lee Steiner, of Sheridan, died Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008, near Laurin, doing what he loved - riding his motorcycle with the one he loved, his wife, Dorie.

Kenneth was born in Sheridan on Sept. 10, 1957, to Lee Boyd and Norma E. Steiner.

He attended Sheridan School where he excelled academically and was an outstanding yet humble athlete.

On Aug. 28, 1976, Ken married his one true love and soul mate, Dorie Knox. Ken and Dorie shared an incredible bond for 32 wonderful, loving years. Through their unity, they were blessed with two beautiful children who they loved with all their hearts. Jake and Kali were the light of their lives and made their family complete. In July 2008, Kenny was overwhelmed with joy to become grandpa to his namesake, Haze Kenneth.

After graduating from Northern Montana College in 1977 with an associate's degree in mechanics, Ken was employed at Halse Motors for a short time before working 22 years as a mechanic for Cyprus and Luzenac America. In 1999, Ken and Dorie opened K&D Auto in Sheridan which he owned and operated until his untimely death. Ken was renowned and appreciated in the Ruby Valley for helping people of all ages. He was relied upon by many and respected for his incredible honesty.

Kenny loved being in the mountains - snowmobiling, Jeepin' and camping. He was an avid Green Bay Packer and NASCAR fan. He also loved riding his Harley. Most of all, Ken loved being with his family and friends. He was known for his huge heart and anyone in his presence felt special and important. It was truly an honor and a privilege to know him.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Norma and Lee Steiner, Aunt Louise, and brother Karl.

He is survived by his loving wife, Dorie; grandson, Haze; children, Jake and Kali; brother, Max; sisters, Sara Decker, Carol Ashley, and Kathy Lott; and numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.

Kenny was a friend to most everyone he met. He would drop anything he was doing to help someone in need. He truly embraced life, knew right from wrong, and wasn't afraid to do the right and honest thing. He was a wonderful husband, father, brother, and grandpa but most of all he was an honest, trusting, true friend who will be missed dearly by all.

It was Ken's request to include his favorite quote: "Life is not a journey to the grave intending to arrive safely with a pretty and well-preserved body, but to skid in broadside thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming 'Wow! WHAT A RIDE!' " Oh, what a ride it was, Kenny. Rest in peace. We love you!

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday in the Sheridan Elementary Gym with the Rev. Jan Knox, who is Dorie's mother, officiating. Interment will follow in the Sheridan Cemetery.

K&L Mortuaries of Sheridan is in charge of arrangements.

This obituary was originally published in the Montana Standard.