Stephen W. Woodward, 59, a kind, caring, and supportive son, husband, father, teacher, and coach, passed away May 13th, 2001 in his Richland home. A memorial service is Planned for Saturday, May 19th at 1: 30 pm at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Richland; a celebration of life will follow at the home of Evan Woodward in Richland.

Steve was born on March 5th, 1942 in Seattle, Washington to Everett & Pauline Woodward. He was raised in Snohomish & Burien where he attended Highline High School. He was a member of the Highline gymnastics team, and was an NAlA National Champion AII-Around Runner Up. He graduated from Eastern Washington University with a bachelor's degree in secondary education. He taught Physical Education & Math in Tacoma for a short time, and then moved to Eatonville, Washington were he taught PE and coached for almost 19 years. He began the school wrestling program at Eatonville High School where he made a positive influence on his athletes and students.

Stephen and Michele S. Murphy married on March 29th, 1961. Raised with a strong work ethic, Steve built a log home at Mount Rainier where he, Michele, and family lived for many years at the Southwest corner of Mount Rainier National Park. Since moving to the Tri-Cities, Steve's energy has been focused on his garden.

Stephen is survived by his parents Everett & Pauline Woodward, his sister Susan and husband Tom Kenney, his wife Michele, and his three children: Stephanie Gustafson and husband Rick, Evan Woodward and wife Dyan, and Alan Woodward and wife Deanna, and grandchildren: Amelia, Caleb, Grant, Hannah, and Natalie Gustafson & Connor Woodward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made at Sterling Savings in the name of Stephen Woodward. Funds will be donated to the Yakima River Watershed for river restoration.