Stephen B. Wood, 53

Former Kalispell resident Stephen B. Wood passed away of natural causes Jan. 2, 2008, in Cheyenne, Wyo. Cremation has taken place, and services will be announced at a later date.

He is survived by his parents, Diane and Barry Wood, of Kalispell; brothers, Brian of Whitefish, Craig and Karen, and Scott of Cheyenne, and Michael and Teri of Kalispell; and a sister, Mary, and Sean McRae, 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.

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

Steve, known as Burleigh by his many friends, was born March 8, 1954, in Glendive. 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.

After college, he first worked as a landman 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.