Retired Staff LeMaster

Retired Staff Sergeant Steve LeMaster, age 59, of Lynden, Washington, passed away on January 24, 2026, at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital after a battle with cancer.

Steve was born on June 23, 1966, in Columbus, Ohio, to Paul LeMaster and Geraldine Wheeler. He was raised alongside his brother, Mark LeMaster, and spent his life building strong roots wherever duty and opportunity led him.

On October 22, 1988, Steve married Roberta Romberg in Everson, Washington. Together, they built a life grounded in family, commitment, and resilience.

Steve proudly served 21 years in the United States Army, retiring as a Staff Sergeant. His final position in his military career was as a Drill Sergeant, a role marked by discipline, leadership, and a deep dedication to shaping the next generation of Soldiers. Throughout his service, he was stationed in Washington State, Kentucky, Germany, Colorado, and Georgia.

His distinguished military career was recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award); Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award); Armed Forces Service Medal; Army Good Conduct Medal (6th Award); National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award); Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal; Southwest Asia Service Medal with One Bronze Service Star; Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 2; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd Award); Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; NATO Medal; Kuwait Liberation Medal; Expert Marksmanship Qualification Badge with Rifle Bar; Expert Infantryman Badge; Drill Sergeant Identification Badge; and the U.S. Army Basic Recruiter Badge.

After retiring from the Army, Steve embraced a quieter life and pursued interests that reflected both his curiosity and creativity. He enjoyed computer coding, PC gaming, and watching crime television shows.

Steve is survived by his loving wife, Roberta LeMaster; his children, Kathleen LeMaster, Elizabeth Smith and her husband Allen Smith, Jonathan LeMaster, and Joshua LeMaster and his wife Brooke LeMaster; and his cherished grandchildren, Abigail LeMaster, Kaison Smith, Ellie Smith, Mason LeMaster, Axl Smith, and Jax LeMaster.

Steve will be remembered for his unwavering service to his country, his devotion to his family, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. His life stands as a testament to commitment, strength, and the importance of caring for one another.

A memorial service with funeral honors from the United States Army active-duty detail. for Retired Staff Sergeant Steve LeMaster will be Monday, February 2, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Gillies Funeral Home, Lynden.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.