Stanley R. Stevens

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Stanley R. Stevens who was indeed a born leader. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Stanley was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Stanley knew him as a well-respected man who was a stable force in his community.

Stanley was born on June 7, 1921 at home in Gladstone, Oregon. His parents were Arthur and Ruth Stevens. Stanley was raised in Portland, Oregon by his grandparents, Momo and Popo Suttle. Even as a youngster, Stanley learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Stanley was able to put his natural abilities to work. He was a bit like the sergeant of the family, helping to make sure that the others did what they should do and that they avoided those things they weren’t supposed to. Stanley was raised with two older brothers, Harry and John.

In school, Stanley was a logical and focused thinker, always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Stanley’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time.” He graduated from Benson Polytechnic High School in 1940. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was woodworking which helped him move on to become a Pattern Maker. After high school, Stanley attended business college with a focus on accounting.

Stanley was sociable and approachable. Because he was always so straightforward in how he approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. He enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Stanley was a member of a group, his interaction worked to keep the others grounded. He wasn’t afraid to confront his friends and, when necessary, he challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Stanley came to expect his high standards of performance. Some of his best friends were George Hurl, who was best man at his wedding, and Don McFarland.

An objective and conscientious individual, Stanley reveled in the security of his family. Stanley exchanged wedding vows with Betty McFarland in 1941 and was later married to Hazel Lane Barteaux, a widow he knew before WWII.

Stanley was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. Stanley would give his stamp of approval to their requests, as long as he could see how they might benefit. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Stanley was blessed with two daughters, Donna and Bonnie, one son, Charles, and a step-daughter, Sylvia. He was also blessed with eleven grandchildren, Tina, Shelly, Jeff, John, Annie, Kevin, Kay, Karen, Sandy, Kristi, and the late Jim (Bo).

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Stanley was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. He worked cooperatively and expected the same from his colleagues. In both his personal and professional environments, Stanley upheld his standards. His primary occupation was as a Pattern Maker. He was employed for much of his life by Dependable Pattern Works in Portland, Oregon.

Stanley was an Army veteran. His sense of duty helped lead him into the military where his understanding of rank, his willingness to abide by rules and regulations and his desire to follow orders was admired by his fellow service men and women. He was in the 104th Inf. Div., Timberwolves 414 HQ 3rd BN. Stanley saw action in Germany and Holland. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He received several awards recognizing him for his heroism, including a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and sharpshooter medal.

Stanley approached his leisure time in the same manner that he approached his life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, he appreciated the hours he was able to devote to his various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were competitive archery, hunting, fishing, and protecting the Clackamas River. Stanley was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Stanley to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. As a young adult Stanley played soccer until he injured his knees.

Being generous with his time and energy, Stanley liked to belong to a variety of groups and organizations. He was a vocal leader who enjoyed being a part of things. Throughout his years, Stanley was an active member of the Sylvan Archers, Knights of the Green Underwear, Eagle Creek CPO, Friends of the Clackamas River and Friends of Barton Park He was also very active in Army 414 Timberwolf Division activities.

Stanley was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. He had several dogs and cats. He and his wife bred and raised Cairn Terriers.

Stanley retired early due to health problems and spent his years caring for his property, which had been in the family for more than 100 years. In many ways, Stanley loved retirement. It provided him with the opportunity to catch up with his friends, attend functions and group outings, and tackle new interesting activities.

Stanley passed away on June 8, 2010 at Sunview/ Sunrise 1 care home in Gladstone, Oregon. Stanley succumbed to Dementia and secondary effects of a stroke. He is survived by his daughters, Donna, Sylvia, and Bonnie. He was widowed in 2002. Services will be held at 2pm, Wednesday, June 16, 2010 in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. Stanley will be laid to rest with his wife, Hazel and his son, Charles in Lincoln Memorial Park in Portland, Oregon.

All who knew him would agree that Stanley was a pillar of the community. He lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Stanley R. Stevens did his best to ensure that his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched was given the chance to become a better person.