Steven Michael Troesh, 64

It’s with great sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Steven Michael Troesh, 64, on Dec. 14, 2017, in Bigfork. Our family has lost a strength that will never be replaced, the community has lost a pillar that will forever be remembered.

Steve’s wife Rene’ Troesh, daughters Cherisse Sweeney, Debralee Coleman, Leanna Troesh and daughter-in-law Christine Troesh have lost a figure that dedicated himself to the strength and empowerment within their lives. Steve’s son Douglas Troesh and sons-in-law Elijah Coleman and Beau Sweeney have lost a role model that represented strength and humility in a man that was always true to his word with undeniable integrity.

Also, eight grandchildren lost the coolest, most fun-loving grandfather that was always available for them, attending their functions and supporting them at every turn. These kids lost a dynamic figure that left them with everlasting memories they will cherish forever.

Steve was preceded in death by his mother Violet and father Joe, baby sister Bonnie Jean, and father-in-law Danny Phillips.

Family was the most important thing to Steve in his life. Along with the deep love he had for his immediate family, Steve had an unconditional love for his extended family and is survived by his two brothers, three sisters, three sisters-in-law, three brothers-in-law and a beautiful mother-in-law. Uncle Steve is also survived by an astounding 74 nieces and nephews. With his large family there was never any shortage of babies to hold, and Steve was in a happy place when holding one of them.

Steve was born on Feb. 27, 1953, in Downey, California. He was raised on a citrus farm with his five siblings in Atwood, California, working hard at an early age and learning the ethics that would carry him through the rest of his life. During his teenage years he met and married his true love Rene’; their unbelievable bond and unparalleled partnership would go on to last 45 years. Soon after they married they started a business and quickly had four children. In 1984, after careful consideration, they transplanted their family to the Central Coast and moved to Orcutt, California. At that time they purchased a Ready Mix Concrete Company and created the business Troesh Ready Mix, Inc. One of Steve’s proudest professional accomplishments was being responsible for permitting the first instream surface mine in the state of California in over 20 years. That accomplishment was a testament to the sheer determination Steve brought to his profession. Whatever the task, Steve was known to be working alongside his team, getting dirty, getting hurt and usually breaking some piece of equipment along the way. Although those tasks didn’t start with an elaborate plan; he always made them work and usually things became better for it.

During the 22 years in business, Steve Troesh would become known as a local business leader that dedicated himself to his community and especially his employees. Steve’s humility would often be seen when he would show up to a meeting in his ripped jeans and a hunting-themed T-shirt. If the occasion called for it, there was always a button-up shirt and a change of shoes ready for him in his truck. His genuine attitude towards the concern of everyone he encountered was infectious and will be just one of the many traits that he’ll be remembered by.

Although Steve was more widely known for his professional career he also shared an appreciation for the arts, whether he was attending the local playhouse or strolling through an art gallery learning details about each artist. In fact, he was able to acquire a vast collection of the artwork that he and Rene’ loved most. He enjoyed sharing his artwork with all who visited, recalling what he learned about how each piece was created. Most recently he discovered the Hallmark Movie Channel where he was able to watch movies and storylines that held his personal values.

As both of Steve’s youngest daughters started playing softball he became a fixture of the local sports community. Steve regularly volunteered both with the rebuilding of facilities and as a coach. He took many teams to tournaments both locally and nationally. His excitement for the sport expanded as both daughters continued their experience playing through college. He was spotted all over the country watching the sport he loved and was often caught watching softball at home in his living room, rocking away in his chair.

Steve and Rene’ fulfilled a lifelong dream of purchasing property in a rural part of the country that they would call their own. The aspirations of raising cattle and growing his own crop were unfortunately cut too short. However, he was able to spend the past three years living his dream on his own property, Rockin’ T Ranch in Bigfork. He had room to shoot his guns, work on his cars and host the many people that would come to visit.

Steve’s other passion was certainly held in the outdoors. Hunting with his nephew became something Steve really looked forward to every season. Even if he didn’t have a successful hunt he would come home with stories of the beautiful animals he saw and the landscape he witnessed. He was truly in awe of God’s creation. Steve also spent the past few seasons finding all the fishing holes in the local lakes, ponds and rivers and was certainly looking forward to sharing the secrets he found with more family and friends. The wildlife has been given a break with his passing.

Steve was a simple man that was larger than life.

The family wishes to thank each of you for reaching out to them. Your show of support is a true testament to what kind of man Steve Troesh was and the affect he had on each of you and our community as a whole.

Services will be conducted at St. Louis de Montfort Church, 1190 East Clark Ave. in Orcutt at 11 a.m. on Dec. 23. A celebration of Steve’s life will follow at 1 p.m. at the Santa Maria Elks Lodge, 1309 North Bradley, where a barbecue will be offered and memories will be shared.

Condolences for the family can be offered in the form of donation to your favorite local charity in Steve’s name. He was also extremely passionate about supporting the armed services and their families, he would be honored if you donated to the www.woundedwarriorproject.org in his name.