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Steven Lee Colby
03/08/1956 — 11/10/2014
From West Richland, Washington | Born in Richland, Washington
Steven Lee Colby
Steven Lee Colby, 58, died in the early hours of Monday, Nov. 10th with his wife and twin brother, Mike, at his side.
Steve had only a few months warning of his impending death, and with that knowledge he made life’s most important decision, to give his life to Jesus Christ, and with that commitment he also committed to keeping a spirit of gladness for each day and gratitude for the life and blessings he had been given. While we deeply mourn his passing we are very grateful for the time we had with him and that his suffering was not prolonged.
Steve was born in Richland to Melvin and Velda Colby. He grew up and attended schools in Kennewick graduating from Kamiakin then attending CBC where he learned to weld. After finishing school he became a welder on construction projects working on WNP 2 and the South Texas Project near Bay City Texas.
Wanting to live close to his extended family Steve returned to the Tri-Cities and began working at Exxon which eventually became Areva NP where he worked for the next 28 years and was still employed at the time of his death.
Steve’s greatest enjoyment in life and happiest memories came from spending time with his family, especially on camping and fishing trips. He loved taking his Grandma Colby and Aunt Donnie fishing. They were still fishing together when his Grandma was in her 90’s.
Because of his generous spirit and love of family, Steve shared his home and free time for the last 5 years with his wife’s parents, Carl and Marian Shaw, who both died in the past year. Steve’s parents and grandparents had also died.
Steve is survived by his wife Twila Colby of West Richland, son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, Justin, Shanlenn, Alden and Adelia Colby, all of Beijing China, his twin brother Michael (Joan) Colby of Richland, sister Sandy (Joe) King of Pasco, brother Randy (Kristy) of Pasco, as well as a large extended family all of whom he loved very much.
Our family would like to
sincerely thank Dr. Charles Krause and his staff for their help and care over
these past months. The assistance of the Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice is also
greatly appreciated.
Steve’s presence in our daily
lives as well his ability to fix or build anything, will be greatly missed, but
we greatly rejoice in the knowledge that we will one day see him again in
heaven.
Please come share your memories of Steve when we celebrate his life. A memorial service will be held Saturday Nov. 15th at 10am at Einan’s “Events at Sunset Center” off the by-pass highway Richland, WA.
Donations can be made in Steve’s memory to Gideon’s Tri-Cities South, PO Box 195, Richland, WA 99352, or to the Tri-Cities Chaplaincy Hospice.
Mike and Joan -Our hearts are sadden by your loss and your family is in our prayers. I just read the connection with Carl & Marian Shaw. Marian was one of my mentors while I was the Development Director at Liberty Christian. I so loved her! One thing I remember she said as she was becoming more forgetful was “I think I will welcome dementia because I love meeting new people!” She was so friendly and beautiful, too. Sending you big hugs and love.
It was my absolute pleasure to have known and worked with Steve for the last 28 years. I don’t recall him ever being in a bad mood, even after all the years of some tough rotating shift work. He always maintained a fantastic sense of humor and work ethic which made everyone’s time here easier. He will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies are with you all during this most difficult time.
Having the occasion to meet Steve and Twila on two different visits to their home “on the hill” for real estate consultation, I am deeply saddened by Steve’s passing……way too early! There are some folks that we meet in my business that sort of stand out from the rest as far as feelings of genuine warmth and “connection”, going beyond the primary reasons for meeting, i.e., business discussions. I truly felt that distinction with the Colby’s.
In reading the obituary, what really moved me was Steve’s important decision to accept and give his life to Christ in his last days. As much as he will be missed so very much by all who knew him, knowing his final destination is most comforting! Even though I did not know Steve nearly as well as probably anyone reading this, my biggest regret is not getting to know him better.
To all of you, family and friends, thoughts and prayers as you grieve the loss of a very good man!
Sincerely,
Jerry Smith
While we had known Steve and Twila over only the last few years with rare personal contact, we have felt a very close bond with both of them. Steve’s personality was one of friendship, laughter and positive thinking. He loved our N Idaho country and we had looked forward to sharing many ATV rides and outings with them both. While that will not happen here on earth we look forward to our many outings when once again we meet in the great beyond. God bless you Twila and all of your family during this difficult time.
I am deeply express my sympathy for Steve’s family. I worked closely with Steve throughout his time at Exxon and Areva. He was an exemplary worker and a giving spirit. He seemed to always have a positive attitude and a great smile! He will be missed by all and he can now start his new adventures.
Our hearts go out to you Twila, Randy, Sandy and Mike, and to your families. Steve was a special cousin who will truly be missed. Many fond memories of great times growing up together come to mind when I remember Steve. Our families’ camping trip to Utah in the late 60’s and the summer as teenagers when he and Mike spent time in Idaho with us stand out.
Steve always had a soft spot in his heart for Idaho and we were delighted when he bought his little cabin here. We enjoyed our visits when he was at the cabin and Mike and I were so looking forward to when he could retire in Idaho and we could be together more often.
Steve was a kind and gentle soul. He faced death as he lived life: with a smile on his face, at peace, and ever concerned for those around him. I know he is resting in the arms of Jesus now, pain free at last, but we surely will miss him. God comfort and bless you all.
I will always remember Steve. I have worked with Steve for the last 27years, We worked closely together in the control room at Areva, We had a lot of laughter during the 27 years. Steve was a great man. I will always remember Steve for his personal letter that he had wrote to me and my wife when my son was killed in Afghanistan while serving in the Army. That was what made Steve a great individual, he had a caring heart. Steve will always have a place in my heart.
Our prayers to go Steve’s family, for comfort and peace.
John and Joelle Ellis
Steve will be so greatly missed. What a wonderful person. A friend from the first time I met him. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to get to know him over the last 8 years. His constant positive attitude and smile will forever be in my heart.
Condolences to the family.
Steve was one of the reasons that made coaching and
teaching a valued profession.
When “The Colby Boys” were around…there was never a dull moment!
Thanks for all of the smiles, laughs, and truly life adventures we shared together.
Hank Sauer
Mike and Joan -Our hearts are sadden by your loss and your family is in our prayers. I just read the connection with Carl & Marian Shaw. Marian was one of my mentors while I was the Development Director at Liberty Christian. I so loved her! One thing I remember she said as she was becoming more forgetful was “I think I will welcome dementia because I love meeting new people!” She was so friendly and beautiful, too. Sending you big hugs and love.
It was my absolute pleasure to have known and worked with Steve for the last 28 years. I don’t recall him ever being in a bad mood, even after all the years of some tough rotating shift work. He always maintained a fantastic sense of humor and work ethic which made everyone’s time here easier. He will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathies are with you all during this most difficult time.
Having the occasion to meet Steve and Twila on two different visits to their home “on the hill” for real estate consultation, I am deeply saddened by Steve’s passing……way too early! There are some folks that we meet in my business that sort of stand out from the rest as far as feelings of genuine warmth and “connection”, going beyond the primary reasons for meeting, i.e., business discussions. I truly felt that distinction with the Colby’s.
In reading the obituary, what really moved me was Steve’s important decision to accept and give his life to Christ in his last days. As much as he will be missed so very much by all who knew him, knowing his final destination is most comforting! Even though I did not know Steve nearly as well as probably anyone reading this, my biggest regret is not getting to know him better.
To all of you, family and friends, thoughts and prayers as you grieve the loss of a very good man!
Sincerely,
Jerry Smith
While we had known Steve and Twila over only the last few years with rare personal contact, we have felt a very close bond with both of them. Steve’s personality was one of friendship, laughter and positive thinking. He loved our N Idaho country and we had looked forward to sharing many ATV rides and outings with them both. While that will not happen here on earth we look forward to our many outings when once again we meet in the great beyond. God bless you Twila and all of your family during this difficult time.
I am deeply express my sympathy for Steve’s family. I worked closely with Steve throughout his time at Exxon and Areva. He was an exemplary worker and a giving spirit. He seemed to always have a positive attitude and a great smile! He will be missed by all and he can now start his new adventures.
Our hearts go out to you Twila, Randy, Sandy and Mike, and to your families. Steve was a special cousin who will truly be missed. Many fond memories of great times growing up together come to mind when I remember Steve. Our families’ camping trip to Utah in the late 60’s and the summer as teenagers when he and Mike spent time in Idaho with us stand out.
Steve always had a soft spot in his heart for Idaho and we were delighted when he bought his little cabin here. We enjoyed our visits when he was at the cabin and Mike and I were so looking forward to when he could retire in Idaho and we could be together more often.
Steve was a kind and gentle soul. He faced death as he lived life: with a smile on his face, at peace, and ever concerned for those around him. I know he is resting in the arms of Jesus now, pain free at last, but we surely will miss him. God comfort and bless you all.
I will always remember Steve. I have worked with Steve for the last 27years, We worked closely together in the control room at Areva, We had a lot of laughter during the 27 years. Steve was a great man. I will always remember Steve for his personal letter that he had wrote to me and my wife when my son was killed in Afghanistan while serving in the Army. That was what made Steve a great individual, he had a caring heart. Steve will always have a place in my heart.
Our prayers to go Steve’s family, for comfort and peace.
John and Joelle Ellis
Steve will be so greatly missed. What a wonderful person. A friend from the first time I met him. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to get to know him over the last 8 years. His constant positive attitude and smile will forever be in my heart.
Condolences to the family.
Steve was one of the reasons that made coaching and
teaching a valued profession.
When “The Colby Boys” were around…there was never a dull moment!
Thanks for all of the smiles, laughs, and truly life adventures we shared together.
Hank Sauer
Guestbook for
Steven Lee Colby