Stephen “Steve” Foster, 73, Spokane WA, (formerly of Tacoma, WA), passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and his closest friends on Monday, October 10th, 2022, at MultiCare Deaconess Hospital in Spokane, WA.
Steve was born January 14, 1949, in Tacoma, WA to George and Gladys (Wiar) Foster. He went to Stadium High School, earned his GED, and attended Pierce College in Steilacoom where he earned a certificate in Chemical Dependency Counseling. Steve chose sobriety at age 35. He was proud of his recovery and was willing to share his story with anyone that was ready to get clean and sober.
Steve was a journeyman electrician for most of his life, working primarily for DF Electric, Tacoma and Schmidt Contractors, Spokane. He worked as a chemical dependency counselor for Pierce County Alliance, Tacoma WA, a position that took him to Spokane, WA in 1995. Steve returned to the electrical trade in 1996. After retiring, Steve worked as the maintenance supervisor for Manito Presbyterian Church/Southside Christian School, Spokane, until his final retirement in August 2021.
On December 15, 1995, Steve married Tandi Brayson, who he affectionately referred to as his “bride” during their years together. Steve and Tandi made their home in Spokane. His greatest joy was spending time with Tandi, their family and friends and of course, their dogs. Steve attended True Hope Church, Spokane, volunteering for several years with the sound team and on hospitality.
Steve never met a stranger. He was genuine, thoughtful, generous, kind, and a loyal friend. Steve had a true servant’s heart. He was one of a kind, the ultimate encourager, and was infamous for giving those he loved nicknames. Many of his friends affectionately referred to him as “Mr Foster.” Anyone that knew Steve knew he was a lifelong fan of Harley Davidson motorcycles, the Raiders, Coca-Cola, Post-It notes and after moving to Spokane, the Gonzaga Bulldogs. Steve owned several Harley’s over the years and enjoyed riding with his best friend Brad, to Sturgis, Canada, and the Pacific coast. Although he did not play an instrument, he had an ear and a passion for music. He spoke fondly of his days as a band boy with the Sonics and his dance days at the Red Carpet in Tacoma. He enjoyed vacationing and puttering around his homes in Spokane and in Arizona. Steve took great pride in having the greenest lawn on the block. He loved the beach and the sunshine, and never said no to a quick trip to the casino.
Thank you to all our family and friends who have held us up in prayer and showered us with love during this exceedingly difficult time. Special thanks to the Kaya’s, Madsen’s, McAngus’, Carney’s, as well as Justin, and Brad for their tender care during Steve’s illness.
Steve’s loving family includes: His wife of 27 years, Tandi Brayson-Foster; daughter, Jennifer (Brem) Bisson, Shelton, WA; grandson, Nicholas Bisson, Tacoma, WA; niece, Gretchen (Paul) McAngus, Waianae, HI; brother-in-Law, Devin (Nancy) Johnson, Spokane, WA; sister-in-law, Tiff Johnson, Minot, ND.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gladys Foster, and his brother, Don Foster.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, May 20th, 2023, at 1:00p at True Hope Church, 1316 N Lincoln St, Spokane WA.
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Previous Events
Celebration of Life
20
May
1316 N Lincoln St
Spokane, WA 99201
