Steven ‘Steve’ Henry (Papa) French

Steve passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at home on April 10, 2016.

Steve was born to Henry "Hank" and Ruth French in Portland, Ore. He was raised in the Portland area and resided there until he came to Montana in 1995. Steve worked in the tire industry since his arrival in Montana. He had many stories of all his travels and work with his customers he considered friends. It was through one of his jobs that he met the love of his life, Linda French. They were married on Sept. 27, 1997, and Steve instantly gained two teenage daughters, whom he helped guide and raise.

Steve and Linda took on a whole new adventure when they bought "French's 80" in 2003. It was a huge move to the country, where Steve was able to spend all his time doing chores around the farm when he wasn't at work. He was always tinkering and fixing anything he got his hands on. He was also always finding chores for the grandkids to do so he could give them "walking around money," just a dollar or two.

The sudden loss of this amazing man has left an enormous hole in all our hearts. His kindness, thoughtfulness, his great laugh, stories to be told and re-told are going to be missed more than we can say.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ruth; and his sister Margi.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Linda; his children, Jaime (Andrew) Martian, Jennie Hallett; his grandchildren, Raelee, Carter, Danielle, Alex and Avery; his sister, Barb (Jim), Nancy (Bill); his nieces and nephews, Josh, Jessie, David, Christie, Jenny; and many other numerous family members and special friends.

Cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, April 15, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. A reception is to follow at Fiddlers Sports Bar, 5104 Southgate Drive, one of Steve's favorite places.