Steve Rumsey

Steven Bliss Rumsey, 57, died from complications with cancer October 21, 2010. Steve was born September 19, 1953, in Logan, Utah, to Walt and Mary Rumsey. His sister, Peggy (Bale) and brother, Paul soon followed. The family moved around the west every 4 or 5 years as Walt pursued his career in the Soil Conservation Service. After Logan, they lived in Richfield, Utah, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Idaho Falls, Idaho, Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Boise, Idaho. Steve's leadership skills surfaced at an early age as he served in Boy Scouts, where he earned the distinction of Eagle Scout, ROTC, and many other school and community activities. He graduated from Boise High School in 1971, Boise State University in 1975, and earned his Master's degree from Idaho State University in 1982. Steve married Karla Wetzstein on April 4, 1980. They had three children, Jason, Melissa and Gretchen, and three grandchildren, Jaden, Zoe, and Madelyn, all of whom he adored dearly. He became the extended family patriarch after the early death of his father, Walt. Steve's wonderful sense of humor, compassion for everyone, and love of family keeps them connected through times of joy and sorrow. Steve never ceased to amaze with his witty wise cracks and word craft. His family always depended on him for his advice and insight. A gifted writer, Steve wrote for numerous newspapers and magazines around the Northwest. His English teaching career began at Minidoka High School in Rupert, Idaho. Later he taught at Colville High School, Washington, as well as at the Community College in Colville. Steve and Karla owned The Book Depot in Colville for many years. They also own and publish The North Columbia Monthly, a regional magazine. Gifted in so many areas, and interested in just about everything, Steve built a beautiful wooden kayak, several telescopes, and a barn to name just a few. He kept an array of vehicles running way beyond their normal lifespan. Steve was an amazing teacher, writer and photographer. He loved his garden and was always ready to talk to anyone about his tomatoes. Steve felt most at home in nature. Most of all, Steve took an interest in everyone he met and was truly a loyal friend, father, son, brother and husband. He will always be remembered for his quiet amusement, confidence, generosity, integrity, strength and amazing presence. There will be a Rumsey-style wake on Thursday, October 28, 2010, in the Kalispel Hall at the Community College in Colville, at 12 noon. Please bring a dish to share as well as your fondest memory of Steve written down. The family will compile all of these memories into a book. Everyone who wishes is invited to share stories, Scripture, poems, songs, and/or prayers at the event. Please visit the on-line memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.