Steve would want us to start with a quote from one of his favorite movies, Braveheart. “Every man dies, but not every man lives.” And boy did Steve grab life and live.

John Steven Buckeye was born May 2nd, 1958. Steve was Nancy and Johnny Buckeye’s first born son. He was joined later by his three sisters Rebecca, Michelle, Joni and brother Eric.

Steve married Diane Rott on June 1, 1985 and has been by her side every day since. They had many fun-filled years together and Steve was in his element when he would tell stories of their shenanigans.  He loved to tell stories, but you knew only 50% of them were true. You just never knew which 50%.

Steve was surrounded by a family of women. His three daughters, Emily, Samantha, and Grace and his four granddaughters were his whole world. He often joked with his sons-in-law about living in a “girl” house, but we all know he relished it.

His pride and joy were his granddaughters. He loved them fiercely and brought them joy every time they saw his face. Their Papa was the center of their universe, and they were his.

When you remember Steve, remember his laughter, his kindness and how he could light up a room by just walking in. When he laughed, you laughed. He brought joy to so many.

Steve was a lifelong farmer, and treasured the legacy his Grandparents and parents established. He worked hard his whole life and took great pride in working alongside his dad and brother. Another important family in his life was the Hanson crew. Steve cherished the relationships he had with them and they were truly family.

Steve was a collector, and could find value in anyone or anything. The saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” was Steve’s mantra. If allowed, he would spend hours showing you his treasures. His White Elephant Christmas gifts were the absolute best!

Steve was a friend to all who knew him and when he met a stranger, they weren’t strangers for long.  He always said his dream retirement job was to be a greeter at Walmart because he knew everyone who walked through the door and loved to talk.

Steve attended Bismarck State College. He was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He served his community by being on several boards and was always eager to help those around him.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years Diane, his children Emily (Alan) Buckeye-Olsen, Samantha (Kirt) Buckeye, Grace Buckeye, and his granddaughters Keeley, Alise, Lilyana, and Ophelia; his parents John and Nancy Buckeye; Sisters Rebecca (Joe) Moch, Michelle (Ryan) Scallon, Joni (Dana) Brandenburg and brother Eric (Myla) Buckeye, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

Steve is preceded in death by his grandparents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, and his first granddaughter, Lauren, who we know is getting all his attention right now.

In memory of Steve we ask that everyone does one thing to make someone smile, as that was what brought him joy.

Visitation: One hour before each service at the church.

Prayer Service: 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 17, 2020 at Transfiguration Catholic Church, Edgeley.

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at Transfiguration Catholic Church, Edgeley.  You may view the Livestream of the service by clicking on the following link: (Available 15 minute before the event begins)

Burial: Nortonville Cemetery, Nortonville, ND.

Williams Funeral Home is handling arrangements