Steve Arnold McCann

Steve Arnold McCann, beloved husband, brother, dad, and grandpa, went to be with his Lord and Savior at his home in Boulder, MT, on February 9, 2025.

Known affectionately as "Butch" by many, Steve was born on April 28, 1944, in Havre, Montana. He was the only son of Clarence "Shorty" and Helena McCann. Steve grew up on the family farm north of Joplin, MT, alongside his sisters Katherine (Kay) and Arlene (Peggy). He attended the Joplin Public Schools, where he graduated high school on May 14, 1962. He graduated from Northern Montana College in Havre with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Teacher Education with an Art Sciences Major on June 6, 1966. During his college years, he met the love of his life, Rose Marie Deppmeier. They tied the knot on June 13, 1965, and embarked on more than 57 beautiful years together.

After college, Steve and Marie started their family adventures, which took them to various places, including Inverness, Eureka, and Roundup, MT. During this time, Steve also pursued his Master's Degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Idaho, which he proudly completed on May 31, 1970.

In 1971, Steve and Marie made a life-changing decision to adopt a son, Patrick, and in 1974, a daughter, Rachelle. Steve never let his kids forget that they were the best kind of family, one that is chosen. Steve taught high school at Roundup High School during the day and worked extra shifts in the Musselshell County oil fields to provide for his family.

In 1975, Steve and Marie decided to "go west" and settled in Helena, MT. Steve began his long career with the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO), where he worked for 22 years.

During their time in Helena, Steve and Marie dedicated themselves to raising "kids," which wasn't limited to Patrick and Rachelle but also many of their friends from the neighborhood and Scouting. Steve was a dad to all the kids who entered his home and loved teaching life skills in the shop, while Marie provided countless snacks and meals around the kitchen table. So many people thought of Steve as a second father and always felt welcome in his home (even when a well-deserved "butt chewing" was handed out). Though Steve often traveled for work, he also earned his Doctor of Science Engineering in September 1992, all while prioritizing family time, whether it was camping, fishing, hiking, or taking Patrick hunting.

Steve's passion for mentoring youth led him to become deeply involved in Scouting, where he dedicated over 50 years of service. He began as a Cubmaster for Pack 207 and later became the Scoutmaster for Troop 207. His long-standing commitment was recognized with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award, a council-level honor given to Scouters who have made a lasting impact on the lives of youth through exceptional service. Scouting remained a central part of Steve's life until his passing. He continued to stay active as a merit badge counselor, especially for his grandchildren, Levi and Kelee, leaving a lasting impression on countless young people.

In addition to family, work, and Scouting, Steve and Marie restored antique furniture, working on projects for notable clients, including former First Lady of Montana Betty Babcock. Their side business allowed Steve to hone his woodworking skills and create beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces. He also embraced his passion for wood carving, becoming a Master Wood Carver known for his unique creations.

Steve and Marie moved to Rutherfordton, North Carolina, in 1998 for a job opportunity. They were active members of New Hope United Methodist Church, where they made many lifelong friends. Steve continued his involvement in Scouting, starting the first Cub Scout pack in the area. While they enjoyed their time in NC, Steve and Marie's hearts always belonged to Montana. Steve retired in 2005, and with the help of Patrick, Sandra, and granddaughter Kendra, they made the journey back to their beloved home state in the time-honored tradition of the pioneers, U-Haul! It was the adventure of a lifetime that nobody on that trip would ever forget or care to repeat!

Steve and Marie bought a home and land in Aspen Valley, in Jefferson County. There, they made many memories, gathering at the family pond where the grandkids fish and the family camps, sharing meals throughout the spring, summer, and fall, and, of course, having a little snort of whatever bourbon Patrick had on hand at the time.

Steve and Marie truly enjoyed the Boulder community, were active members of the Boulder United Methodist Church, participated in the county fair, selling carvings and other artistic creations at the Gift Box, and even organized several Cowboy Poetry Festivals that celebrated local poets, storytellers, and musicians.

Steve deeply missed Marie after her passing in November 2022 but found solace in his furry four-legged companion Ginger, who went with him everywhere, including every Sunday visits to Rachelle's to have dinner and see his grandkids.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Helena, and his oldest sister and second mom, Kay. Steve is survived by his son Patrick (Sandra) McCann, daughter Rachelle McCann-Cole (Christopher Cole), grandchildren Kendra (John) Borawski, Tyler (Leslie) Imhoff, Levi Cole, Kelee Cole, and many informally adopted sons and daughters.

Steve was a man defined by his deep love for family, unwavering faith, and lifelong dedication to education and shaping the lives of young people. With a generous heart, a sharp sense of humor, and a creative spirit, he brought joy and inspiration to everyone around him. Whether through his mentorship, his art, or simply his presence, he lived with purpose and love, leaving a legacy that continues to guide and uplift those who knew him. He asked for his gravestone inscription to read "Husband, Father, Grandfather, Teacher, Biologist, Chemist, Engineer, Scouter, Woodcarver" with a final phrase of "HE MADE A DIFFERENCE". These words are a perfect summation of Steve, who touched countless lives young and old, and was all of those things and more to those who knew him.

Cremation has taken place, and his celebration of life is being held at the family's cherished family pond on July 12, 2025, at noon.