Steven Kenneth Riddle, known as "Smiley" to many, 74, passed away Aug. 18, 2023, at home in Chehalis with his loving wife by his side, following a long battle with Parkinson's.
Steve was born June 8, 1949, in Chehalis, Washington to his parents, Kenneth and Bernice (Richter) Riddle.
He graduated from W.F. West High School in 1967 and joined the National Guard, where he served for six years.
On May 23, 1980, he married the love of his life, Sherri (Danielson), blending two families into one. His family was his pride and joy and always came first.
Steve was a hard working man. The majority of his life he worked in the logging industry, where he gained the nickname "Smiley" for always having a smile on his face. He was mainly a shovel operator, but could do it all, from falling trees to hauling them to the mills. He remained in the industry until 2012, when he was forced to retire due to Parkinson's disease.
When he wasn't working, he loved to be outdoors. He enjoyed hunting with his sons, Mike and Jeff, "bonding time with my boys," fishing, camping, water skiing, clam digging and spending time with family and friends.
In 2016, Steve joined Gather Church and found the Lord. He was then baptized in 2017 by his pastor, Cole Meckle, and his son, Jud Riddle. He found great joy in the church and his faith.
Steve was a truly selfless and loving man. He would never hesitate to jump in and help. He even jumped in a pool, clothes and all, to save a child from drowning and performed CPR on a coworker at a logging site until paramedics could arrive. He knew no stranger and was always there to offer a helping hand.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Ken and Bernice Riddle, and brother, Don "Butch" Riddle.
Steve is survived by his loving wife, Sherri; seven children, Jud (Shelly) Riddle, of Centralia, Chris (Karrie) Riley, of Centralia, James (Mandy) Riley, of Chehalis, Andrea (Kristy) Riddle, of Spokane, Michael Riley, of Chehalis, Misti (Jason) Kramer, of Princeton, Illinois, and Jeff (Leota) Riddle, of Winlock; 33 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two "bonus" grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He will forever be loved and missed.
I have fought the good fight.
I have finished the race.
I have kept the faith.
— 2 Timothy 4:7
A celebration of life will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Oct. 7, 2023, at the Newaukum Grange, 104 Brown Road E., Chehalis. It will be potluck style and drop in when you can. Some food and drinks will be provided.
