Steve lived large and on his own terms. A gifted artist, he was passionate about all things that matter, from politics to great food. He was well known for his amazing life adventures and ability to survive them, so it was ironic that it was an undetected aneurism that suddenly claimed him.
Steve grew up in Stoney Creek, Ontario but by the time he was 15 he began seeking more exciting horizons and spent that summer hopping freight trains west to fight forest fires in BC.
Later, after graduating from high school he was eager to explore the world and its cultures and over the next ten years he would travel the globe, living in far flung places, from England to India, Australia to Israel and many countries in between.
It was during this time, in 1973 that he moved his home base to Canmore Alberta where he established himself as a restauranteur as part owner of the Sherwood House. As beautiful as the Canadian Rockies were, when Steve visited friends on Gabriola island, he knew this was where he wanted to spend the rest of his life.
And he did.
In 1988 he moved to the Island, semi- retired and spent the next ten years studying arts, philosophy and political science at Malispina College. It was there he met Julia, a fellow student who would become his wife and life partner. They spent 27 wonderful years together and during that time Steve worked at the Surf lodge as a chef, waiter, and prep chef. He loved it there and was highly regarded by staff and customers alike.
Steve made many friends along his life’s journey and loved entertaining and cooking for them. His house was always full of guests coming over for dinner or just to chat and everyone has a least one favourite “Steve Story.” He was a smart, fun person with a huge laugh and a wicked sense of humour but he was also passionate about politics and a major advocate for women’s rights.
He is survived by his mother, Mary, brother Marcus (Kim), niece Taylor and nephew Evan. as well as his wife Julia Jefferson and her large family.
Due to Covid-19 there will be a private celebration of life on Sunday, September 27, 2020.
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