Stephen Wood

Former Flathead Valley resident Stephen B. Wood passed away of natural causes on Jan. 2, 2008, in Cheyenne, Wyo.

Steve, known as Burleigh by his many friends, was born in Glendive on March 8, 1954. He resided in Glendive, Billings, Denver and Great Falls as his parents were transferred. He attended school in Great Falls through the eighth grade and high school in Kalispell, graduating in 1972.

He enjoyed sports, participating in Little League, Babe Ruth and American Legion baseball. He played varsity basketball all through high school.

After high school, he attended Oral Roberts University, where he played baseball, and Rocky Mountain College, where he played basketball and baseball.

Following college, he first worked as a landsman for J. Norsworthy in Billings and then other jobs to allow him to travel throughout the United States, which he enjoyed. Steve was then employed as a management analyst by the Bureau of Land Management in Portland, and then Cheyenne, where he retired after 18 years of service on a disability.

His quick smile, outgoing personality and gift of gab led to many lasting friendships with people from all walks of life. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carl and Primrose Wood and Kerwood and Dorothy Burleigh.

He is survived by his parents, Diane and Barry Wood, of Kalispell; brothers Brian Wood, of Whitefish, Craig Wood and wife Karen and Scott Wood, of Cheyenne, Michael Wood and wife Teri, of Kalispell; sister Mary McRae and husband Sean, of Kalispell; nieces and nephews Christian Wood, Angela Wilson, Elizabeth and Courtney Wood, Chris and Randee Wood, and Olivia, Maisy and Henry McRae; and numerous aunts and uncles.

Cremation has taken place and services will be announced at a later date.