Michael E. "Mike" Stevens

Michael E. Stevens "Mike" died Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, at his home of a cardiac event. He was 86.

Dad was born Oct. 27, 1939, to Orville T. and Hazel (Johnson) Stevens, at Orofino.

Dad was raised in Craigmont and attended Craigmont School. When his father lost his leg, Dad quit school to help on their farm. Unfortunately, Dad never returned for his senior year.

He married Loretta Skelton on Jan. 12, 1958. They began their married life in Reubens.

Dad was involved in agriculture his whole life. When he and fellow partners, Ron Payne, Gary Doggett, Terry Perrine, Jack Roy and Roy Baldus started Nezperce NH3 Custom Application, he was very proud of their business. Nobody was doing custom application at this time.

When the business was sold, first to Harvest States then Primeland, he never really wanted to go back to the plant. We knew it was his pride and joy - not bad for someone not having a high school diploma.

Mike and Loretta had four children: Michael Brent-Stevens, born March 26, 1960 (died Nov. 11, 2023); Lori Lunders, born June 20, 1962; Brenda Heitstuman, born Feb. 3, 1964, and Lyle Stevens, born Oct. 30, 1970.

Mike and Loretta moved to Lewiston after Mike retired in 2008.

After mom died on Sept. 21, 2024, Dad was inconsolable.

Mike is survived by his children: Lori Lunders (Wayne Blackburn), of Lewiston, Brenda Heitstuman (Neil), of Culdesac and Lyle Stevens, of Lewiston. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Derek and Kristen Lunders, Reubens; Chance and Beth Lunders, Reubens; Garrett and Kayla Lunders, Clarkston; Kerrigan Stevens, Lewiston; Milo (Emily Trees) Heitstuman, Culdesac; and Samantha Stevens, Lewiston; and 17 great-grandchildren. Dad also had a special relationship with his nephew Ron (Mary) Ross.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife Loretta; sister Chris Ross; his son Brent; grandson Neil Heitstuman Jr., and in-laws: James and Laura Skelton, and niece Shari Ross.

A private burial for Mom, Dad and Brent will take place at a later date.

A joint celebration to honor our parents is being planned for a later date.