Stephen Charles Frisbie

Steve Frisbie was born on June 5, 1947, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to Charles and Lorraine Frisbie. He and his mother resided there until his father’s return from World War II. After the war, the family moved to Portland, Oregon, where Steve was lovingly raised by his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Despite the distance, Steve remained deeply connected to his Midwestern roots. He fondly recalled taking the train with his mother and sister Nancy to visit family on the farm, where he created cherished memories and stories of youthful mischief.

Steve’s creativity blossomed early in life—he even had business cards as a young boy raising fish. His loyal dog, Sparky, was a constant companion who greeted him faithfully after school each day.

After graduating from Grant High School, Steve married his first wife, and together they raised three children. He began building a life rooted in hard work, dedication, and passion. He found employment at Boeing, where he developed valuable skills that became the foundation for his lifelong pursuit—restoring cars.

What began as a hobby in his garage evolved into Steve’s Auto Restoration, a company that earned a reputation for excellence throughout the community and beyond. With the guidance of key mentors and an unrelenting drive for perfection, Steve became a master craftsman in antique and classic car restoration—eventually expanding into hot rods.

His work garnered numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Ridler Award in Detroit, as well as honors at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Forest Grove Concours d’Elegance.

More than his awards, Steve was known as a mentor, visionary, and artist. He took great joy in helping customers realize their dreams, and his creativity and innovation inspired everyone around him.

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A Love Story

Steve met the love of his life, Paula, on a cold day when a snow and ice storm was on the way. Paula had offered to give a friend a ride to the airport to pick up her friend’s husband—who happened to be traveling with Steve. After they landed, Paula drove them back to Steve’s shop, where the men had parked their cars.

Before parting ways, Steve graciously offered Paula a tour of his shop, proudly showing her the cars and projects he was working on. Later that week, Steve called to thank her for the ride—and then asked if she would be interested in attending a Trail Blazers game with him.

That thoughtful call began a relationship built on warmth, laughter, and shared adventures. Steve and Paula were married on September 26, 1998, and together they built a loving home and life in Southeast Portland.

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Steve spent six years serving in the National Guard, where he developed a deep love for his country and an enduring respect for the men and women who serve and protect it. He delighted in exploring the nation with car groups, meeting wonderful people along the way, and sharing his many passions—especially history, scuba diving, and memorable fishing trips to Alaska.

His lifelong fascination with the 1800s led him to fulfill one of his dreams—owning the historic Poulsen House in Portland, which he filled with exquisite furniture and period pieces. Later in life, he realized another dream by creating “Steve’s Mahal,” a personal space where he proudly displayed his beloved cars and collections.

Steve possessed a mind that was always thinking, imagining, and creating. His unique blend of artistry, curiosity, and innovation left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Above all, Steve cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Paula; his children, Teresa, Julie, Ryan, and his eight great grandchildren; and Paula’s children, Rebecca, Sam, George, her eight grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Losing someone so special is never easy. Steve’s passing leaves behind countless memories, stories, and inspirations. Though we mourn his loss, we take comfort knowing he is now free from illness and embarking on a new adventure.

Steve Frisbie will be deeply missed. He was truly one of a kind