Steven Lee Stoltz, born on December 20, 1961, in
Billings, Montana, passed away on December 16, 2025. He was the beloved son of Nolan Harold and Darlene Joyce Stoltz.
Steve graduated from Hardin High School and later attended Billings Vo-Tech, where he earned a certificate in Diesel Mechanics. On November 29, 1986, he married Terrilee Drake. Together they shared 39 years of marriage and a life rooted in faith, hard work, and entrepreneurship. Throughout their years together, Steve and Terri owned and operated several businesses. They began with The Yellowtail Market in Fort Smith, Montana, which they ran for 13 years. They later opened and operated the Thompson Falls Bed & Breakfast in
Thompson Falls, Montana, for seven years. Steve also founded Stoltz's Auto Cleaning & Detail, which he operated until his retirement in December 2021.
Steve and Terri welcomed their son, Colton Stoltz of Tucson, Arizona, in 1988, and their daughter, Courtney Stoltz Dean of
Thompson Falls, Montana, in 1990.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Nolan and Joyce Stoltz, and his faithful "man's best friend" and loyal companion, Lucy. He is survived by his wife, Terri (Drake) Stoltz; his children, Colton Stoltz (Heather Schmidt) of Tucson, Arizona, and Courtney Stoltz Dean (Johnny Dean) of
Thompson Falls, Montana; his cherished granddaughter, Delaynee Leigh Dean; his siblings, Nola (Stoltz) Vandersloot (Larry Vandersloot) of
Hardin, Montana, and Ray Stoltz (Debbie Stoltz) of Clearmont, Wyoming; his sister-in-law, Devi (Drake) McCully (Marc McCully) of Libby, Montana; nephews, Shannon Gregory, Mike Vandersloot, Jon Vandersloot, Thad Stoltz, Chase Stoltz, and Aaron McCully; nieces, Heidi Gregory, Kayla Marchant, and Jennifer McCully; numerous aunts and uncles; cousins; and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Steve will always be remembered for his unwavering faith, boundless kindness, and deep compassion for others. A man of steadfast belief, he dedicated his life to his faith, finding strength and purpose in his devotion. His generosity knew no bounds, and he was always ready with a helping hand or kind word. Steve exemplified hard work and integrity, pouring his heart into everything he did-for his family, his community, and his work. His quiet strength and commitment to doing what was right made him a role model to many.
Above all, Steve will be remembered for the love he shared with his family, especially in his treasured role as "Best Papa" to his granddaughter, Delaynee Leigh Dean. His gentle guidance, playful spirit, and unwavering support created memories that will live in her heart forever.
Steve leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness that touched all who knew him. He also wanted everyone-especially his family and friends-to know, love, and follow Jesus, so he might spend eternity with them.
A service of remembrance will be held the weekend of April 4-5, 2026, at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trout Creek, Montana. Final service details will be announced prior to the service. Interment will follow at White Pine Cemetery. An additional obituary will be published prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Trout Creek Adventist School and/or Building Fund. Arrangements are by Sunset Hills Funeral Homes & Crematory.
"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." -Romans 8:28 Steven Lee Stoltz
Published by Big Horn County News from Dec. 31, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2026.