Stephen "Steve" G. Lofing

Our Beloved Steve Lofing — The Man, The Legend, The Yard Guy

The world got a little quieter—and a lot less fun—on October 20, 2025, when our beloved Stephen “Steve” Lofing of Boise, Idaho, finally hung up his fishing pole. Born on July 2, 1969, in North Bend, Oregon, to the late Alexander and Murial (Garrard) Lofing, Steve spent his life making a magnificent ruckus, leaving behind laughter, love, and a lawn so perfect it could make a golf course jealous.

A Life of Home Runs and Happy Accidents

Raised in Reedsport, Oregon, Steve found his first love on the baseball diamond. A star pitcher with a rocket arm and an infectious grin, he earned a full-ride scholarship to the College of the Redwoods. During that time, he met his first wife, and together they had two sons, Alex and Ryan. Fatherhood was Steve’s proudest achievement—he spent countless hours teaching his boys to throw a perfect curveball, fish a quiet stream, and find joy in the simple things.

After college, Steve traded his cleats for a lumber grader’s stamp, working in the timber industry for more than 20 years. When the mills closed, he pivoted fearlessly, tackling new roles in sales, customer service, and, fittingly for the times, as a virtual vehicle inspector. His career path, like his life, was guided by curiosity, humor, and heart.

Steve lived across the map—North Bend, Reedsport, Scotia, Roseburg, Coos Bay, Euless, Durham, Seattle, and finally Boise—collecting stories, friends, and memories everywhere he went.

His Greatest Catch

While living in Coos Bay, Steve met his soulmate, Michelle. What started as friendship quickly turned into laughter, love, and a forever partnership. Despite both swearing they’d never marry again, eight months later they tied the knot on a spooky-sweet Halloween night—October 31, 2015—with Steve’s sister-in-law officiating and their loved ones cheering them on.

Their love was full of adventure, travel, and a shared knack for making a home out of every place they landed. Eventually, they settled in Boise, bought their dream home, and renovated it together—each corner reflecting their humor, creativity, and devotion. Their family grew to include two beloved Alaskan malamutes, Shorsey and Katey-Kat, who became their cherished “kids.” As their 10th anniversary approached, Steve was excitedly planning a vow renewal, eager to say “I do” all over again.

The Man with Too Many Hobbies

If Steve wasn’t home perfecting his lawn, you’d find him doing one of his many favorite things—fishing, rockhounding, golfing, crabbing, disc golfing, hiking, biking, woodworking, cooking, thrifting, or watching Ducks baseball. He had a gift for turning any hobby into an art form, whether it was detailing cars, fixing something around the house, or hunting for treasures at yard sales. Though Catholic by faith, Steve’s true sanctuary was the outdoors—especially his perfectly manicured yard, which he tended with unmatched pride.

The Team He Built

Steve leaves behind a beautiful, blended family who will forever carry his spirit forward: his loving wife, Michelle; his sons, Alex and Ryan; his bonus kids, Kevin, Jenna, and Tristan; and his six adored grandkids—Gavin, Phoebe, Will, Lilly, Tulio, and Tristan—whom he couldn’t wait to teach the perfect curveball. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law and best friend, Ted Cesler, and his buddy, Anthony Covarrubias, along with countless friends and neighbors who will miss his friendly wave and easy smile.

He is joyfully reunited with his parents, Alexander and Murial Lofing, and his brother, Michael Lofing.

A Life Well and Playfully Lived

Known for his easygoing charm, quick wit, and generous heart, Steve never met a stranger. Whether in a grocery store aisle, at a fishing spot, or while walking the dogs, he could strike up a conversation and walk away with a new friend. He was authentic, funny, kind, and endlessly giving—truly one of a kind.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on October 28th from 5:00–7:00 PM at Bowman Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to share their favorite “Steve stories” and raise a glass to a man who lived, loved, and laughed harder than most.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Planned Parenthood, Father’s Heart Ranch, or Camfed, causes close to Steve’s heart.

Though Steve has cast his final line, those who loved him take comfort knowing he’s out there somewhere—fishing a perfect river, with the sun on his face, the Ducks game on the radio, beer in hand, and a smile that never fades.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

Arrangements under the direction of Bowman Funeral Parlor, Garden City. www.bowmanfuneral.com 208-853-3131