Steve James Germeau Sr., 79, of Centralia, Washington, passed away peacefully in Pasco, Washington, on Sept. 15, 2025.
He was born Feb. 14, 1946, in Port Angeles, Washington, the beloved son of Norm and Florence Germeau. He grew up alongside his siblings — older brother Stan “Bud” Germeau and younger sister Christina “Tina” Miller. In 1953, the Germeau family relocated to Centralia, where Steve graduated with the Centralia High School Class of 1964.
Steve was well known and loved for his flirtatious charm, quick wit, endless jokes and the humble, heartfelt stories he shared with everyone he met.
In 1968, he married Gloria Wright, and together they raised three children: twin sons, Stephen and Michael, and a daughter, Jennifer. After high school, Steve began his career with Dulin Construction and later moved to Thorne Bay, Alaska, in the early 1970s. There, he worked for Ketchikan Pulp Company (later known as Louisiana-Pacific), where he became a skilled shovel operator and wore many hats throughout his career.
In 1989, Steve married Sheila Payne Plumb, and they shared many years together until her passing in 2008.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Norm and Florence Germeau; his son, Michael Germeau; Gloria Wright Roberts; Sheila Payne Germeau; and many aunts, uncles and friends.
He is survived by his son, Stephen James Germeau Jr., and wife, Lisa; his daughter, Jennifer Terry, and husband, Philip; his brother, Stan Germeau; his sister, Tina Miller, and Oscar Orloskey; his grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
A celebration of life will be held on Oct. 18, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at American Legion Grant Hodge Post 17, 111 W. Main St., Centralia, Washington.
In his honor, please feel free to wear mismatched socks on the day of his celebration, in person or at home. Please bring your stories, memories and love as we gather to honor the life of Steve Germeau.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in Steve’s memory.
