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Stephen Dixon Tempest

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Highland High School University of Utah

Stephen Tempest Obituary

Stephen Dixon Tempest 1957 ~ 2005 Stephen Dixon Tempest passed on in the comfort of his home and family January 21, 2005, from Non-Hodg-kin's lymphoma. Born December 24, 1957, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Diane Dixon Tempest and John Henry Tempest, III, Steve grew up in the foothills of the Wasatch where he loved to hike and watch deer. His love of nature translated into an empathy toward others. He attended Highland High School where he was student body president in 1976. Steve later served in the Florida-Tallahassee mission for the LDS Church. When he returned home, he married Ann Peterson in the Salt Lake Temple December 27, 1979. He graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in finance. For 25 years, Steve Tempest was general superintendent for The Tempest Company and was currently president of Tempest Enterprises, Inc. He loved the intellectual challenge and excitement of pipeline construction, the freedom of working outdoors, and the tangible evidence of what good men can accomplish together. Steve believed in the power of community and served on the Board of Directors of the Associated General Contractors of Utah and the University of Utah Alumni Board. With his diagnosis of lymphoma, Steve chose to help others with cancer, delivering last summer's "Survivors on the Summit" talk at Snowbird benefiting the Cancer Wellness Center. He spoke of living simply in the present because, in truth, "we are all terminal." Steve's life was one of quiet service, helping people, be it putting in a sprinkler for a neighbor, or creating a village waterline in the high plateaus of Bolivia. His wit, fierce integrity and mental toughness, passion for adventure, and his devotion to Ann and his daughters define the power of this humble man. He lived well. His influence resides in our changed hearts. Preceded in death by his mother; he is survived by his wife, Ann; and their daughters, Callie, and her husband Andrew Jones, Sara Teewinot, and Diane Kathryn. Honoring his life are his father, John; sister, Terry, and her husband, Brooke Williams; brother, Dan, and his wife, Thalo Porter; and brother, Hank. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Gertrude Thody Peterson. A viewing will be held January 24, from 6-8:30 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn, 3401 Highland Drive. Funeral services will be January 25, 12 noon at the Valley View Stake Center, 2245 East 3900 South. No viewing prior to the service. The family wishes to thank Dr. Bill Nibley and his staff; Dr. Nelson Wright; and Dr. Steve Lordon, all neighbors, along with IHC Hospice, who served Steve well. Steve had a dream of creating a labyrinth for cancer patients, their families and caregivers, so they could walk in times of sorrow and solitude as a personal meditation. This project is in the works as a gift to the community. Donations can be made to the Steve Tempest Labyrinth Project, c/o Zion National Bank, Account #004481057.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Jan. 23 to Jan. 25, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Tempest

47 Entries

Robert Montague

March 23, 2020

I served with Elder Tempest in the Florida Tallahassee Mission. He was an AP of the first order. One day he came to work with me and we had appointments all day long, no tracting. He said that was the only day in his mission he spent the entire day teaching going from one appointment to the next. In a word he was "Resolute."
Gosh I admire him. I have remembered him all the years and so sorry to hear about his passing too young. I am not surprised by his accomplishments. What a gift to have him as a father and husband...role model, for me.

rita hurault

February 13, 2005

All Tempest family,

I met Steve at the cancer retreat at Commonweal one year ago. Our NHL diagnosis was the same and we had gone through chemo at exactly the same time. We spent quite a bit of time comparing our tiny and brave hairs re-emerging from our scalps and we bonded over that and our mutual love of the outdoors.

Even with only a week, it was clear Steve was a hugely deep, compassionate and commited human being. He touched everyone with his warmth and wit and inspired all of us with his grace and relentless pursuit of knowledge. He was so enthusiastically and fully alive. I will never forget him, and thank you all for sharing him with us for that week at Commonweal. His love for his family was profound.

I send prayers for your peace in his passing and give thanks for his presence and influence in the world. May his spirit somehow disperse and come up like seedlings.

Laurie Bird

February 5, 2005

Dear Tempest Girls,

I'm finally getting a chance to write in this guest book. Who knew that we would lose our fathers within a week of eachother to cancer? It has been a hard time for all of us and I hope we can get together soon to talk about our experience. I'm so grateful that your parents trusted me to take care of you when you were little. We had a lot of fun times together. I cherish our friendship and hope we can continue to keep in touch. My love to you and your Mom.

Ken Stevens

February 4, 2005

Dearest Ann and family,

I just received word today of Steve's passing. I recall with great fondness the time that we spent together climbing in the hills, making forts in the scrub oak, and hanging out on the rock wall in his back yard. I had no question that he would have a great influence on many around him, and I always admired and looked up to him as having many special gifts that none of our other peers possessed. I cannot begin to comprehend the loss that you feel. My prayers are with you.

Sally Marsh Haglund

February 1, 2005

Dear Tempest Family,

I've been searching for words to express to you since I learned of Steve's death. I ache for you and the universe to have to say farewell for now, to such a great man.

Looking back on high school years, Steve's kindness, perspective and wisdom seem to me beyond that of a normal high school student. His genuine interest in others, subtle humor and strong leadership abilities also caused everyone I knew to love and respect him. The last thing Steve wanted to do was try to impress you- yet, that's just what he did. Steve was a good friend and someone I will never forget.

I extend my love to Ann, your daughters and the entire Tempest family.

Sincerely,

Ed Deffner

January 30, 2005

Dearest Ann & Tempest Family,

Like Steve, your kindness is unmeasurable. Words can not express the ache in my heart upon hearing of Steve's death, as Steve was an inspirational man to me. My family ("F" Father "A" and "M" Mother "I" "L" Love "Y" You) has been truly touched by Steve and your family's vision of love and service to others.

During my chemotherapy treatments, two of our trees were severely damaged by wind. Steve lovingly offered to assist me and visited with a backhoe, and as he phrased it, "This is how cancer patients remove tree stumps!" As he smiled, the second tree stump just popped out in front of me!

We thank God for Steve's wonderful spirit, which will be with us, in nature, and with many others everyday.

Love,

The Deffner's

Kelli Jacobsen Plotnik

January 30, 2005

Dear Hank,

I am Kim Jacobsen's sister, Kelli. I was sorry to read that your brother Stephen passed away. It seems that he acquired what most people strive for in life, the love of family and friends. It so nice to know that someone you love so dearly is loved by many. May your memories help you through this most difficult time.

I have a Super 8 Movie of you and Kim when you were around 4-5 years old. If you are interested in a copy, please email me. I also gave Kim several childhood pictures of you. I know she mailed them to you, so hopefully you received them. You are in our thoughts and our prayers.

Twinkle Chisholm

January 28, 2005

Dearest Terry and family. I am so sorry that you are having to experience yet another loss.

My heart goes out to you. Love, Twinkle

James Nebeker

January 28, 2005

Anne and Family,

Steve has taught us many things before graduating early. Most potently I've learned you can't make up for a life of kind acts suddenly near the end of your life—in this you and your family can feel peace knowing he gave much to many. When I look at the photo of Steve in this obituary, first I see strength, then wisdom and then subtly as if the photo transforms I sense his underlying smile.

Until we meet again,

Nebeker Family

John Coleman

January 27, 2005

To the friends and family of Steve,its been 35 years since I've been around any of the Tempest family...You have to believe that he's gone to be be with his Mother and other loved ones...My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mary Eggertsen

January 27, 2005

Please count me among the hundreds of people who must think Steve's purpose on earth was to be their friend, for that is how he made me feel! I have not talked to him in a long, long time, but I know he loves me and I love him. I had the privilege of babysitting the John Tempest children almost 40 years ago and the memories of this dear family are precious, while as close as yesterday. I have heard wonderful reports from Kathryn, Martha, Robert, Susan and Linda on their visits with each of you and of the beautiful service on Tuesday. I send my love to every one of you--John, Terry, Dan and Hank, and special love to you, Ann, Callie, Sara and Diane. I have seen in my mind over and over again this week the beautiful smile on your face, Ann, as you approached me at our Dad's funeral service, and I know that smile has lifted so many. May you feel at peace--all. Love, Mimi

Scott Wood

January 27, 2005

To the Tempest Family I was saddened to hear of the death of Steve. Getting to know him on the trip up the Grand Teton many years ago will always be on of my great memories. Getting to know Diane after the trip was a monumental experience in my life - it answered questions I had about what made your family so unique and in a way mysterious. Our families thoughts and prayers go out to you.

Bill and Betty Swiler

January 26, 2005

Terry and family,

Betty called me at the office this morning to read to me your brother Steven's obituary. We know of Steven only by our knowledge of you and the guest book entries. Cancer seems to be the scourge of our times. Betty called while I was working on plans for my brothers' and their wives' visit with our young sister, Gayle, before breast cancer also takes her before her time. There have always been more mysteries in our lives than understanding. The cause of cancer is one of those mysteries. Your brother's dream when realized ("...a labyrinth for patients, families and caregivers to walk in times of sorrow and solitude...") seems a fitting accommodation for all those challenged by the disease. Time will be needed by all of us to mitigate our sorrow. It seems ironic that this is the very time denied our siblings. Love and be well, Bill and Betty

Francy Williams

January 26, 2005

To the Tempest Family:

What a legacy your father has left with each one of you and all mankind. Knowing you all briefly through your grandfather, John, I recognized the christlike person,

Steve was. Celebrate his love of life through the memories he so

dearly experience with each of you. May the days ahead be filled

with fond memories of his past.

Our thought and prayers are with you and your extended family.

Francy and Hank Williams

Arlington, Va.

Marv Kirkham

January 26, 2005

Steve,

The last time we spoke together was December 19, 2004. At the time you seemed at peace and very content. Our small talk was pleasant and concise. We desired to express our love and appreciation for you and Ann, but could not find the correct words.

You need to know of our immense admiration for the Christlike messenger roles the two of you have played in so many lives. You simply are "Difference Makers" wherever you go. Your influence is eternal!

Thank You!

Marv and Carolyn Kirkham

Cindy Shogan

January 26, 2005

As Terry would say, "arms around Steve's loving family and friends." The Shogans and Yeagers wish we could have attended the Service. We love you dearly and our hearts are with you.

Linda Dunn

January 25, 2005

Steve Tempest will forever be our hero. He lifted our sights of how to live a life well. We feel blessed to have summitted many peaks, ridden many trails, hiked for miles together and grown to love and appreciate his many talents and gifts that he so freely shared with everyone he knew. We are changed for the better by Steve's example and send our love in great abundance to Ann, Callie, Sara and Diane. We love you as family and are here for you. We share your pain and suffering as well as your joy and celebration of having a man like Steve central in your life.

All our love,

The Dunn Family

Michael, Linda, Jeffrey, Brady and Emily

Janet Durham

January 25, 2005

I went to an incredible funeral today. I was really touched by the tributes to Steve--particularly the way he thought of others. He was always teaching, giving meaningful gifts, writing notes, and serving others. He lived with enthusiasm and with gratitude. What a great example of a man who knew how to build strong, meaningful relationships. He is worth emulating. I'm sorry that he is gone for now, but I believe he will always be close to his loved ones. It is such a blessing for me to reflect on adventures with your family. Best wishes to each of you.

Patricia Rust

January 25, 2005

Dear Ann and Family,

We wish we could have been at the service for Steve today, to express our love and condolences personally. We were deeply touched by the obituary, detailing the life of service that Steve has given. We pray that our Heavenly Father will comfort all of you at this time of great loss.

Love,

Rusts and Preeces

The Jacobsen Family

January 25, 2005

To the Tempest Family:

We are sorry for your loss, Stephen was a good person and has done many good things in his life. Celebrate his life, cherish his memory.

Your former neigbors-

Parley, Alice, Karen, Steve, Kelli, Kathy, Kim

Sarah Kirkham Metcalfe

January 25, 2005

Steve influenced my life so very much by his example. I feel so lucky and truly grateful to have known him for some of the most crucial years of my life. He was a pinnacle of support when myself and others around me faced trials- he insured me with undeniable faith.

Whitney Beynon

January 25, 2005

Dear family of Steve Tempest,

The few times I got to spend with Steve, were very revealing in what kind of person he was. He eminated in kindness and warmth. I was always comfortable with him around. I saw what a great father he was too his family. He raised such amazing children that anyone would love to be around. You guys are in my prayers, and never hesitate to ask for anything. I love you guys and wish you the best.

With much love,

Whitney Beynon

Richard Fetzer

January 25, 2005

We extend our love and sympathy. May your family be blessed with assurance of continued relationships hereafter. /with love, Richard & Kathleen Fetzer

Annette Hatch Nichols

January 25, 2005

Steve was my student body president. Although it was many years ago, I remember the respect that we had for him as he served us. After all those years, I ran into him this past year at a church meeting. He walked right up to me and said, "Hello Annette". What charisma he had!

Ann, to you and your children, I wish you peace. We lost our dear sister Heidi this past December. What a tough thing it has been for us too. I believe that Terry was her big sister in Delta Gamma - thanks Terry for your influence in her life.

Best wishes to you all.

Annette Hatch Nichols

Ashley Beck

January 25, 2005

To Callie, Sara, and family -- Please know of my deep sorrow in the passing of your father, husband, son, brother, and friend. Your strength has been an inspiration to us all. I love you dearly and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers always.

Love Always, Ashley Peterson Beck

Cris Clark-Sorensen

January 25, 2005

To the Tempest Family,

I'm sorry I did not know Stephen personally, but I've had the pleasure of being aquainted with some of the incredible people in your family. Your family spirit proves to be uniquely strong and very special to many people. If I may, on behalf of the Clark family, let you know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Sincerly,

Cris Clark-Sorensen

Katie Flegal

January 24, 2005

Steve was such an inspiration to all. He was kindness. The gentle way he handled life was very moving. I love you Tempest Family. Ann you are a role model and I hope at this time you will have strength. Sara...I love you like a sister. Callie, Andrew and Di I have grown to love you as well. Families are forever and I know your strong family bond with ensure that. I love you guys.

Todd & Marianne Dobson Ogaard

January 24, 2005

To all the Tempest Family:

Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you in your loss.

Sydney Wight

January 24, 2005

Tempest family,

I just want you to know that you are in my prayers. I know God has a plan for everyone--trust in Him.

Sydney

Mindy Jackson

January 24, 2005

I am grateful that I got to know Steve through Sara. He truley is an unselfish and humble man. It really impressed me when he took his family to Bolivia to do service. I also recognize how he taught his daughters to love God's creations and to take nothing for grantid. I can honestly say that his example has impacted my life. My heart goes out to the Tempest Family, and you are all in my prayers.

Craig and Jan Zwick

January 24, 2005

To an exemplary Father John and a loving companion Ann,

We send our love and sympathy to you and to those closest to you. Steve was loved in mortality and will be loved forever. His life of pure service will never be forgotten. God be thanked for the entire Tempest Family. We send our love from across the pond.

Alicia Plewe

January 24, 2005

To my best friend Sara- I love you so much and can not tell you what an amazing example of strength you are to me. I have watched you go through such a hard time this past year and I just want you to know I admire you. I love you and know that I pray for you every night. I miss you sooo much and wish so badly I could be with you at this time. Know I will be home soon and I will be there for you all day everyday. I thank you for your friendship and I love you! love always, lish*

Jeff Wight

January 24, 2005

In the many hours spent sitting along side Steve at soccer games I found him to be friendly, happy, interesting, willing to help, and a good listener. He was a substitute Father to my daughter when I was not available and treated her as well as any of his own daugthers. I will miss hearing of him and the things he did for my daughter and therefore for me. I am sorrowed by the loss of Steve - I will miss him.

Rebecca Breiman

January 24, 2005

To the family of Steve Tempest:

We are wishing you the best during this time of sorrow for your family. I had the honor of meeting Steve on several occasions and was impressed by his incredibly calm and gentle manner, he was the first face that I put with our mission and we are working harder than ever to find a cure for this horrible disease, in honor of Steve and the many others out there that he was an inspiration to.

Sincerely,

Becky Breiman and the staff of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Utah

Bob Plymale

January 24, 2005

Sincere sympathy for the loss of your husband, father, son and brother. I knew Steve from the MP14th Ward many years ago and admired him for his many accomplishments.

Kristen Wight

January 24, 2005

Steve Tempest is my hero. All that he has taught me I will forever carry in my heart for the rest of my life. I know that is what he wants in all of us. His passion for life, love, and service has affected every person who came in contact with him. And that same passion will continue to spread infinitely. I love Steve as a second father to me. Tempests, your family equals strength and a compassion I will forever strive to gain. I love you all so much! Thankyou especially for sara. Sar, you're my best friend forever. I see so much of your Dad in you. I know you make him so proud. I love you all and I will always be here for you. STAY STRONG.

Corbin Anderson

January 24, 2005

My association with Steve has left a lasting impression on me. His friendship, wit, and genuine care for others was infectious. He exuded love for his family and a love of life. He has been a wonderful gift to so many.

Sue Parker

January 24, 2005

Steve was truly a gift - to his family, his community and the world. I am so grateful to be able to count myself as one who knew Steve. He leaves this earth a more beautiful place. We at the Alumni Association will miss him.

Nan & James Ellsworth

January 24, 2005

Steve is the embodiment of a Renaissance man. He is intelligent, wise, sensitive to nature, strong, determined, artistic, full of integrity, and keenly aware of the feelings of others. What a great man. We are better because of our association with him. We will miss him.

Katie & Lars Grisley

January 24, 2005

To the Tempest Family: We are so sorry to hear of Steve's passing and hope that you can use Steve's example of strength to get you through this time of sorrow. You are in our thoughts and prayers. To Diane: A special hug and kiss to you...we love you and know that you will get through this! Keep smiling.

Steve McMaster

January 24, 2005

Steve was a man of many talents, not the least of which was his ability to blend and use them all in serving and befriending others. Such a gracious fellow travelor will be greatly missed. Steve, his family and his friends are in our thoughts and prayers.

Kevin Glade

January 24, 2005

Jean Giono wrote a simple, touching account of a man who spent his entire life planting trees throughout Provence, in southern France. It was appropriately entitled "The Man Who Planted Trees." Steve also spent each day of his entire (but all too short) life planting trees in the lives of everyone he met and knew. Steve's unassuming good nature, coupled with strength and a deep love for all, touched everyone. We will miss him terribly.

Amy Strasser

January 23, 2005

I just want you to know that your husband, father, and friend was always so kind and caring towards everyone he came in contact with. I could tell the way he lived his life by the way his daughters lived their lives. I had the pleasure of playing soccer with Sara and Diane, and I think highly of them both. I hope at this time of sorrow you will find the peace and comfort needed to get through this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Craig Carman

January 23, 2005

Steve, we know your father and know you through him. Your father is a stong and courageous man as you have been. We have known your mother. She was a beautiful lady in every sense of the word. We know of your tender-heartedness through her. To Ann, your father-in-law says of you, "Every man should be blessed to have married a women like Ann...She was with him to the very end." Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Thoral & Ruth Ann Wardle

January 23, 2005

Our hearts go out to you in this time of sorrow. Steve will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. The short time I spent with Steve before his passing was very special to me. We talked about work of course, and about there not being any guaranties in life,he seemed so at ease, such a remarkable man! He showed me the tables he had made and the rock sculpture in the yard. I had no idea he was so talented. We talked of his being able to travel with Ann and his girls and of how blessed he had been to be able to share this with the ones he loved.To honor Steve and the company he loved so much I will do all I can to help the company grow and prosper. Thoral

George and Annette Brantzeg

January 23, 2005

Dear Ann and girls,

We just want to send our love and prayers at this tender time. We loved Steve and you, and so appreciate his wonderful work with the youth and especially our son. He held your Steve as one of his ideals. May the Lord bless you all and give you comfort.

Much love,

Homer Warner

January 23, 2005

Steve has been a tremendous influence for good in my life by the conistent way he lived his life - a life of hard work, pursuit of excellence, loyalty, selflessness, and delightful wit.

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