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Stephen Klein Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Klein
Sponsored by Shelley Klein.
Jim Hammack
June 27, 2015
I was searching the Internet today and found this site. I am not sure if it is still active and monitored. I wanted to tell Shelly about how much I admired Steve when I knew him at PLU. Steve was my roommate and we spent many a night talking about baseball, school, and the outdoors. Steve was one of the great individuals that I have ever known. Later, I remember speaking with Steve about his decision to pursue a career in teaching. In fact, Steve and I got together at UW when he was getting his teaching certificate. I believe that Steve was working in an eye bank at UW. Lastly, I rememeber exchanging letters with Steve while he was working in Gamble, Alaska and meeting Steve and you at the Tacoma Mall. I miss Steve greatly and wish you and your family the best at all times.
By the way, I have moved on with life and my wife and I live in DeKalb, IL which is an hour west of Chicago. I serve as a Superintendent of an excellent public school district. My wife is a professor of Education at Aurora University. We have four children. My mom and dad still live in Federal Way, WA.
Their little game of teasing over with, Stevie and Dad both smile for the camera......... We love and miss you so much ~ Stephen Andrew Klein ~ 28 April 1959 - 20 July 2006
July 21, 2007
Dad teases back......
July 21, 2007
Stevie thinks it's fun teasing Dad.....
July 21, 2007
Stevie teasing her Dad. We were at the beach watching Zach fish. (set-netting commercially) - 16 July 2006
July 21, 2007
October 26, 2006
Abby Seppilu was the girls cheerleading coach for Savoonga, while Steve was coaching the wrestlers in Gambell. They traveled together to Unalakleet to attend the wrestling and cheerleading regionals there. Lots of happy memories there. In the five years that Steve coached the wrestlers in Gambell, Abby was the cheerleading coach for Savoonga, and probably still is to this day. Love, Shelley
Abby Seppilu
September 27, 2006
My so long ago friend, I have been thinking about you & now I finally found the right time to write you a short note. You & your family have a really nice guest book set up for your loved one. I never forget the time during BSSD wrestling/cheerleading competitions of how nice & thoughtful Steve always was to us. May God continue to keep you all in his care & comfort you during your hard times.
Kimberly Tretikoff
September 15, 2006
Steve will be missed by everyone who had the honor of meeting him. I will miss having talks with him about anything. It was a great pleasure to work with him. My heart goes out to Shelley and the kids.
Canning silvers. Yum! Bristol Bay Alaska '98
September 8, 2006
Picking silvers off the net. Bristol Bay Alaska '98
September 8, 2006
Getting ready for set-netting. Bristol Bay Alaska '98
September 8, 2006
Taken in Seattle. Pete, Steve, Zach, Shelley, Stevie. '02
September 8, 2006
Eleanor Gologergen
September 7, 2006
shelly our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, I know your family will miss him alot, god will watch over you and your family, praying always help. take good care of your family and yourself. god bless you and watch over you.
Shelley Klein
September 6, 2006
Pam & Pat Krepel are teachers who also taught at Bristol Bay Schools along with Steve.
Steve and Shelley Klein - Bristol Bay 2003
September 6, 2006
Pete, Steve, Shelley. Mt. Rainier - July 2006
September 6, 2006
Last school year together. Bristol Bay Schools - 04/05.
September 6, 2006
With Zach, 19 mo's. Anchorage, Ak. June 1989
September 5, 2006
You were the most dedicated teacher I ever knew.
September 5, 2006
Smoking reds with Glenda Egli. July 2003
September 5, 2006
Peter's 7th birthday in Gig Harbor. July 14, 1993
September 5, 2006
Homer, Ak. October '90. Steve, Seth, Shelley, Peter & Zach.
September 5, 2006
Bill, Diane, Emma, Billy, Eric, Gabriella Hill
September 5, 2006
I worked closely with Steve for several years at Bristol Bay Borough Middle School. His wit, laughter and intelligent conversation made school more enjoyable for all. He could always be counted on to lend a hand and worked extremely hard to help our students excel.
We had many conversations and his love and concern for his family was always voiced, along with his never-ending desire to be out fishing and hunting.
Shelly, Zach, Stevi and Peter our thoughts are with you. Thank you for putting together this wonderful memorial for Steve, we will miss him dearly.
Lois Herrmann
September 5, 2006
I was deeply saddened when I heard about Steve. My thoughts immediately went to Shelley and the kids. I enjoyed working with Steve at Bristol Bay Schools. He was a great inspiration to our Parent Advisory Committee, and we had some great discussions. I will feel his spirit at our future meetings as his commitments to our school and student learning were very strong. Steve will be greatly missed.
Pam Krepel
September 5, 2006
Shelly and family, This is an awesome tribute to a wonderful man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the joy of knowing Steve help lessen the pain of his passing.
Pat Krepel
September 5, 2006
Steve will be missed; I was very shocked by your loss. Our love and prayers are with your family.
Graduation - Mt. Edgecumbe High School in Sitka, Ak. May 2006
September 5, 2006
With a brand new baby girl, Stevie in Homer, Ak. June '91
September 5, 2006
On a hi-school senior trip with Gambell kids. Gig Harbor 93-94?
September 5, 2006
July 4th fireworks with Seth. Pete born 10 d. later. '86 Tahuya
September 5, 2006
Andrew Haviland
September 5, 2006
Shelly and family- the photo album is so wonderful. When I look at the photos I see so many little things that add familiarity - shirts, physical poses and stances, sweaters,and body gestures. These all say so much and add so many little details to the pictures. Although the pictures cover so many years of your life they all show me the same person I remember. Thank you - they are special and bring a tightness to my throat and tears to my eyes. Much love and strength to all of you.
Sandy Alvarez
September 4, 2006
Dear Shelley and the Klein Family,
It was a wonderful priviledge to have known Steve and to share the fun times our daughters spend with each other. We never know what strength we will need to provide to others and what strength we will gain from them, but our families have mutually stengthened each other through some tough things over the past year. I count it an honor to be part of your circle of friends.
While the memories you have may right now be poignant and painful, you are richly blessed to have had many moments with him as your loving husband, father, and son. I know that these memories will become ever more precious in the years to come.
I pray often over you at odd hours when the Lord brings to to mind.
Justin & Melissa Vold
September 4, 2006
"Man! I like that guy! What a good guy! Hard workin'!" ...that was always Justins comment after a visit with Steve. Every time. And he really meant it. We will always miss the time we didn't get to spend with him getting to know him even more. We will make it up by spending more with time with you, Shelley, Stevie, Peter, Seth, and Zach. We love you all.
Stacey Uglowook
September 3, 2006
Sheley & Family
Always remember all the beautiufl times that you had with Steve. Each and every one is a blessing. Know that you are always in my prayers. Love and God Bless! Stacey Uglowook
Martha Crow
September 3, 2006
One of my fondest memories of Steve I will forever cherish happened during a biology class for middle school students...We dissect a beluga then we dried it and ate it!!!It was so scrumptious! I will forever have that memory!!!I am know we will all have memories of Steve in such a way his spirit will forever live within us.
Late fall duck hunting season. Sep 2005
September 3, 2006
Coming back from silver fishing upriver. July 2005
September 3, 2006
Coming home from fishing upriver King Salmon. Jul-Aug '05
September 3, 2006
Siluk and Suuk Apangalook
September 3, 2006
We vividly remember Steve bringing us fresh loaves of bread (leftovers from the senior fund raising effort) either in the wee hours or early morning under any weather. He was truly a man with a heart for our people.
September 3, 2006
Dad w/ Stevie n Pete in the boat & Zach inner tubing. Tahuya '00
September 2, 2006
Baby Stevie with Dad and George Anungaquk in Gambell 91
September 2, 2006
And yet another one 4 u Steve, this one with Sara.
September 2, 2006
Here's to you. Your daughter Stevie with Shawna. Aug 06
September 2, 2006
Stevie with Daddy and Apa, my father. Brooks Camp 2002
September 2, 2006
Lake Camp near King Salmon - 2000
September 2, 2006
'Daddy's rocking me to sleep....' Stevie & Dad Gambell 1992
September 2, 2006
Stevie with her Daddy visiting Uncle James in Orting - 91
September 2, 2006
Thank you for our beautiful daughter. Stephenie Andrea Klein (Stevie)
September 2, 2006
Thank you for our beautiful boys. You live on in them.
September 2, 2006
Always watching over Pete. Now you are truly his guardian angel.
September 2, 2006
Once again with Pete. Gig Harbor '94
September 2, 2006
Always holding Petie. Seth, Peter, Steve, John. Gig Harbor
September 2, 2006
Steve, Peter, Jenni, Sheila & Gavin Klein hiking in Washington.
September 2, 2006
3 out of 5 years, Seth took outstanding wrestler trophy between 92-96. Bering Strait Schools
September 2, 2006
Proud Dad & Seth at State Wrestling '97. Seth 2nd in State @ 171#
September 2, 2006
Zach, Alec, Jenni & Nat, Seth, Shelley & Stevie, Steve & Pete. Gig Harbor 94
September 2, 2006
Cleaning reds 2AM on July 8. Bristol Bay Alaska. 2006
September 2, 2006
With Petie Pie and Seth in Gambell. Proud Daddy. 1986
September 2, 2006
Proud Dad with his baby boy (Zach) winning the State Wrestling title at 189#. December 2005 Wasilla,
September 2, 2006
Did you see me skipping that rock?! We have never seen anyone skip rocks like you did, Steve!
September 2, 2006
Whale hunting in the spring with my father and brothers in Gambell. 1986
September 1, 2006
Steve handing Seth a poagie he caught for him. Tahuya 1986.
September 1, 2006
With Andy Haviland in Gambell trying to figure out the camera. Steve's 1st year teaching. 1984.
September 1, 2006
Rena Booshu
September 1, 2006
Things I remember about Steve: I can see Steve one cold, windy morning when the sky was navy blue with hardly any snow on the ground, moon was shining bright right before school was about to start. He was wearing that white atkuk and had a telescope out. He was watching meteorites or something. I can't recall what. But that was the Steve I knew - he loved science. He was my teacher once - taught me and my classmates, Carolyn Apatiki Apangalook (my first best friend), Romona Ungwiluk Tungiyan and David, now my husband, geometry during our Senior year. He made it easy to learn. Passed it with a B and algebra, I passed with a D years before. He was always cool, calm and collected. Shelley and kids, you are in my prayers. Know you are not alone. May the good Lord watch over you. Love you all.
Steve on a fishing trip with Zach. Bristol Bay 01/02
August 31, 2006
Picture taken at the King Salmon Visitor's Center the day Zach left to go to school (senior year) at
August 31, 2006
Family picture taken in Anchorage ~ 2004
August 30, 2006
Family picture taken in Homer, Alaska ~ Winter 1990
August 30, 2006
Our 7th Wedding Anniversary ~ Christmas Eve 1992
August 30, 2006
Wrestling with Zach on the dock at Mither/Fither's house. 2005 ~ Tahuya, Washington
August 30, 2006
Bath time for little Pete, 3yrs old, and Zach at 19 months. 1989 - Homer, Alaska
August 30, 2006
Steve with Petie Pie and Baby Zach in Gambell - February 1988
August 30, 2006
Christmas in Gig Harbor 1992
August 30, 2006
After a caribou hunt with Zach 2001 Bristol Bay
August 30, 2006
Steve with brother Bob, Peter, Dad and Zachary Tahuya 2005
August 30, 2006
Steve with Dad on a beautiful summer's eve in Tahuya on the Hood Canal 2005
August 30, 2006
With Stevie, our Baby Girl 1991 Homer
August 30, 2006
Mariner's Baseball Game 2005 Seattle
August 30, 2006
Sonja Lapinski
August 29, 2006
I was only in King Salmon for a few months as a USFWS intern, so I didn't get to know Steve well...but whenever I was at the computer late and it was his day to clean the building, Steve would come in and talk. I would try to resist talking to him and stay on task, but that was hardly possible. He would always get me talking, usually about sports. He was a truly friendly, charasmatic person and he seemed intensely proud of his family - he always wanted to tell me about his wonderful kids. I was really sorry to hear that he passed on.
Orville LInd
August 29, 2006
Shelly and family, you are in our prayers; My first impression of steve as he was as Corey's teacher. Always positive,just like his family; always showed kindness,with a smile; like his family;always showed he cared for students and friends, he was always working hard; no doubt his children will do the same. GOD BLESS, you all: Lind Family
Tamara Avalnun
August 28, 2006
First of all I would like to thank Steve for all the time he was here in Gambell. Thank you Steve, you taught me alot through my high school year.
Shelly and kids, I know it is hard to lose a loved one but remember you are never alone. Be there for each other. You are always in my prayers. I love you all.
Jeremy Coghill
August 27, 2006
Mr. K
Some of my favorite memories are of him in middle school.
He was alot of fun on our 8th grade class trip. he had it all planned out. It was a blast when we would go swimming or hiking he was right there with us sometimes would even out do us youngsters.But Steve Klein was an awesome teacher who was loved dearly. And our prayers and sorrow goes to all of his family.
Jessie Campbell
August 25, 2006
Steve knew just how to teach and get the whole class to pay attention. He had so much wisdom and knowledge about ALL life that he shared with his students in Gambell. There was never a dull moment during his classes. My favorite was his science classes...."Steve Klein the Science Guy" I called him. The most interesting time was when he ordered frogs and snakes to digest. :)
There was only good in him...like a kind, warm glow for all in Gambell to recieve. What I saw in Steve, and remember of him, was nothing more than the happiest man I knew, he was always happy. God rest his soul!
I pray that God sends all his family and friends comfort, patience, and light of hope as it is hard to lose a loved one. God be with all of you!
George and Heidi Steinberg
August 25, 2006
Dear Shelley and family,
Steve will always be remembered by the community. He had a good reputation and was respected by all. At school, his students really loved him. He always had a warm smile and a greeting that made you feel special. He will be greatly missed.
May the Lord bless and comfort you.
Kim Antoghame
August 24, 2006
Steve was my Teacher for years and he taught me to never give up that you learn from your mistakes. He was always encouraging and that's why I love challenge and I still do! I've been thinking about you and the kids everyday since his passing. He's in a better place than us and we'll all see each other in Heaven...no more sorrow, pain, and suffering! I love you all!
Your all in my prayers,
Love-Kim
Andrew Haviland
August 24, 2006
1984- I can remember meeting Steve when he arrived in Gambell. I wondered who this tall young man was, with his charming smile and his intense eyes. Steve displayed and embodied such a determination whether it was seen in his classroom lessons, in his late evenings planning his teaching, on a walk on the beach, or a game on the basketball court. I so enjoyed working and visiting with him. When he and Shelly left for Homer I felt a loss but we managed to keep in touch. Our families had the joy of visiting each other in Homer but Steve was off working across the bay so we saw Shelly and the kids. When Steve and family returned to Gambell I had the fortune to work along side of him again. Holly, my wife, and Shelly enjoyed so many days having tea, picking berries and going crabbing. Steve and I got to trade stories about whaling and walrus trips. I even got to Eskimo wrestle Steve once during Yupik Days one year.
Over the years we have continued to run into each other... many times in Anchorage when State tournaments coincided. I was lucky enough to see the whole family last spring in Anchorage where Zach was playing basketball.
When I heard that Steve had left us I was shocked and numbed. I am still am on many days, especially last week when I went to an inservice and saw many folks that had known Steve. Steve was a year younger than I and we began our careers a year apart. It is hard to beleive I will not run into him again. Steve had a zeal for life and was so proud of his family.
I will miss seeing him in person but will continue to see him in my heart and my mind.
A tall man with intense eyes and a bright smile who always had an inquisitive mind and was always looking to make his own and the lives around him better. Steve is a gentleman whom I truly call a friend. My thoughts and love go out to all of his family members whether I have ever met you or not.
God Bless you all.
Aaron Anderson
August 23, 2006
One of the brightest memories of Gambell that has stayed with me over the years, was of my senoir trip to Gig Harbor and the Seattle area. Steve spear headed the trip planned the full two weeks to the hilt. His example as a teacher and enthusuiasm for teaching deeply impacted me. Though I have worked in several different fields over the last 10+ years, I have found my way back to the field of education. I now work with people with physical and mental disabilities and infact, frequently plan out activities like the one Steve did for me. When anyone askes about my adventures in Alaska, I always include the phenominal senior trip that Steve orchistrated. I am sorry that I am not there with you to give you a hug and share the warmth that Steve has given me in my life. My memories of him will live with me forever. May the Lord bless you and your family at this time.
Shelley Klein
August 23, 2006
To the Kleins, once again for your info. Robert and Judy Anderson taught with Steve in Gambell in the first years of his teaching career up there. Love, Shelley
Paul & Nattie Boskoffsky
August 22, 2006
It's so good to know how much Steve meant to Naknek. WE were privileged to be friends with him. Shelly thank you so much for that. Paul and I pray daily for you and your family. To Steve's family it was great to meet all of you. WE will also remember you in prayer. "The joy of The Lord is our strength." because GOD will never leave us nor forsake those of us left behind. Makes for a wonderful future family reunion someday. Love and prayers to you from us.
george anungazuk
August 22, 2006
steve n familey i have 2 many gud memories
1 was a trip down south side of st laurence island 4 a fishing trip 2 go fishing
also hunting
Robert & Judy Anderson
August 22, 2006
We were so shocked and saddened to learn that Steve has been called home to our Heavenly Father. Please know that our prayers are with you all and that we would gladly hug you all, each one! and would welcome any word on how we could support you during the coming times without him. - Robert and Judy Anderson
Sylvia Toolie
August 22, 2006
Shelley,
You and your children and the rest of the Klein family are always in our prayers. I also commend Steve for adapting to our way of life and to accept our traditional way of life without any questions, reservations. May God continue to keep you all in His Arms. Love you.
Tala
Fritz Waghiyi
August 22, 2006
We love you all and in our thoughts and prayers.
Rhona Apassingok
August 22, 2006
We send our prayers and comfort to Shelly Klein family and Steve Klein's extended family. We may think we have lost a loved one, but we know that this is only temporary. May you all have strenth and courage to go on one day at a time. We shall meet our loved ones soon once again. We have seen Steve care for his family with much love and caring. May he rest in peace now.
Merle and Rhona Apassingok and family
Mary Burtness
August 21, 2006
To Shelly and family: We were very sorry to hear of your loss. Steve was a very special person in so many ways. I enjoyed working with him in Naknek and will always remember his warm and sometimes mischievous smile.
August 20, 2006
Steve was the best PE, math and science teacher in my (our) high school years. He taught us all well. The most memorable thing about Steve is our senior trip to Seattle. Thank you for your hospitality to Steve's family in WA. We had a lot of fun and made many memories. Our prayers to Shelley Pagkwaay and children and all families from AK and WA. Sincerely, Reva B, (Class of '92) & family
Charlotte Apatiki
August 18, 2006
Everyone here in the community of Gambell have cherished memories of Steve. He was one of my favorite teachers' in high school as well as my uncle, I was proud to have known him. He had his "own special way" of teaching everyone, and I am sure we will all remember his classes, because he made them so interesting. We send our condolances to our aunt Shelly and Children,Steve's Parents, Brothers and Sisters and their families, Aunts and Uncles,Neices and Nephews, and to anyone that knew him. We will miss his companionship, but like the Lord says"Death is only the Beggining".
Warren Koozaata,Jr.,Charlotte Apatiki, Warren(Trey)Koozaata lll, and Jonah Apatiki-Koozaata
Amy Riddle
August 17, 2006
Steve was a friend and colleague ever since Steve and Shelley brought their family to Naknek. He taught our daughter when she reached middle school. He loved his family so much and was very proud of his children. I will always remember him sitting in the bleachers cheering them on. Shelley, Seth, Peter, Zach and Stevie, I am so very sorry for your loss. Know that you are being lifted up in prayer in this difficult time. In love and friendship, George, Amy and Adriane Riddle
August 17, 2006
To the Klein's in Washington, just for your info. They didn't state it in their messages, but Nan Averwater and Kim Davis also taught with Steve in Gambell (Bering Strait School District) for several years. Nan was teacher to Zach and Stevie in kindergarten. Kim was Zach's teacher, and also the girl's cheerleading (for wrestling) coach at the time Steve was coaching middle school wrestling, so they all traveled together in the district. Love, Shelley
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