For more than 40 years, Steve devoted his life to the Fort Johnson Volunteer Fire Company. Beginning in the early 80s as a teenager, he was a member of their Explorer Post through the Boy Scouts and later became a full, active member of the company. He came up through the ranks and held various positions.

He was a mentor to many and a fount of information for fire-related topics. His most recent rank was 2nd assistant chief, and he served as the department’s historian and financial secretary. Steve stood shoulder to shoulder with his fellow members as they dealt with the tragedy of others, and many were there with him in his final hours. Steve was awarded life membership when he reached 20 years of membership. Steve previously worked for GAVAC when they were all volunteer years ago.

Steve had two children, Tori and Brandon; one stepchild, Ryan; and three grandchildren, Gabriella, Isabella, and Cecilia. Steve’s daughter, Tori, is currently serving as 2nd captain with the Fort Johnson Volunteer Fire Company and working towards life membership with 16 years of service. Steve adored his son, Brandon, and his granddaughters, Gabriella and Isabella, oftentimes meeting at the firehouse so the girls could learn about the trucks and what Grandpa did. Steve loved his children and shared an unbreakable bond with all three of his granddaughters.

Known by many as Bullwinkle, Steve was an avid Bills fan.

Steve loved the firehouse and considered the people there his second family. Fellow members shared their memories of Steve. He may have had a stern voice, but he always had a soft heart. He was a great mentor, leader, and friend. He was quick-witted and always had a joke ready. Every time he saw me, he would put his arm around me and say, “Hey kid, you know I love you, right?” -Chief Jaime Swezey

One of my favorite memories with my father was when he first took me up in the bucket of the tower. When he was showing me the controls and how to operate them, I knew I wanted to follow after him and dedicate my life to being a firefighter like he was. He may have been harder on me than others, but I knew it was because he didn’t want anyone to think I was getting special treatment. I cherish everything he taught me. When I look back over the years we had with my father, some of my favorite memories with him were at the firehouse.