John Hammon Steed

He was such a genuine man. It showed in his smile and in the sparkle of his eyes. He never met a stranger and was everyone's friend, father, grandpa - a valuable mentor to many.

John was born December 31, 1945, to Newel Steed and Alice Young. He had a great love and appreciation for his parents, their teachings and sacrifices. His desire was to always honor them. Being raised on a ranch taught him strong work ethic and a love of the land. He enjoyed a wonderful childhood with his many brothers and sisters. From a child he learned the value of determination. No task was too large and once he started a job he wouldn't stop until it was finished.

As a young boy John would sell potatoes after school, going from house to house, a wagon in tow as a means to help support the family. He has been very strong both physically and emotionally and possessed a great sense of responsibility to contribute. Thus began his lifelong desire to help wherever he could.

John had a great love for his country and dutifully served a hitch in Vietnam. He was a proud American and protected with honor.

In the trucking industry, John drove for many years and miles to support his own growing family. He had eleven children that he dearly loved. He also sold and setup pivot sprinklers with his brothers and dabbled in farming. He excelled at any endeavor he undertook.

Later, John owned and operated Henderson Heavy Haul Trucking, coordinating and overseeing the transportation of heavy equipment and wind turbine components. He put in long hours each day, solving the many challenges that were dealt his way. Words cannot fully convey how he appreciated the loyalty, hard work, and dedication each of his drivers and employees showed. He loved his day-to-day work but this was ultimately a vehicle to what mattered most to him: a means to help others and contribute wherever he could - his greatest legacy.

John lived a huge life and did it all on his own terms. He made mistakes along the way but did a lot of things right. John was a dreamer, without dreams we reach nothing. He was also a risk taker which took nerves of steel; while he always had several things on his plate, he never complained or let on about these heavy burdens. Indeed, he never failed to be grateful for the opportunities he'd been given.

It was these characteristics, among many others, that endeared him to so many. He was a nurturer, a life guide, an encourager that always showed strength and steely poise, a pillar of stability.

A viewing will be held 4 - 6:00 p.m., Thursday, October 7, 2021, at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary in Grand Junction.

Celebration of life services will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 8, 2021, at the Canyon View Vineyard Church Chapel, 736 24 1/2 Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505. There will be an opportunity for those who wish to share a short story or memory about John.

Interment will follow at Crown Point Cemetery, 945 23 1/2 Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81505.

Peace and Blessings to all.