Steven Walter Park, age 82, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024.

Steve was born on April 3, 1941, in Nephi, Utah to Loren and Alice Park. Steve spent his childhood participating in every sport he was able to. He ran track, played baseball, and football. However, his true love was found on the basketball court. Steve led his high school basketball team to a state championship and was later named all state point guard.

Steve’s love for being active extended outside of sports competitions. Throughout his upbringing, his best friend, and childhood hero, was his older brother Cleston. Together they spent much of their childhood exploring the creeks and wilderness of Nephi canyon: catching fish, hunting deer, and herding cattle.

In the year 1959 Steve graduated from Juab High School, and immediately joined the Army National Guard. While maintaining his reserve status, he also went on to work owning a gas station on Nephi Main Street, working at NRP, and driving trucks for Pexton Wholesale, before becoming a full-time National Guard recruiter. After retiring from the National Guard, he took on a role as a bus driver for Nebo School District, where he had the privilege of driving the bus for children who had special needs, which was a position he deeply cherished.

Steve married Shirley Seely in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 3, 1965. Together they had two children, Chantele and Brandon. They were sealed as a family for time and all eternity in the Provo, Utah temple on April 20, 1990. Steve was greatly devoted to Shirley throughout their lives together. He faithfully took care of her through the end of her life.

Steve is survived by his children Chantele (Chuck) Bruton and Brandon Park. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, whom he adored. Steve was preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley, only six months prior to his own passing.

Our family would like to thank those at the Beehive Home of Salem who cared for Steve throughout the last two months of his life. We appreciate all the love and care you provided.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Payson City Cemetery located at 400 North 800 East in Payson, Utah.