Steven Ferris, age 72, passed away on May 8 from his brave nine-month experience with cancer. He is survived by his three children James, Will and Elizabeth (Noey) Ferris and former wife Monica Ferris. His oldest son Taylor Ferris preceded him in death.

Steve was the son of Gordy and Doris Ferris and grew up in Aberdeen, Washington beside his brother Lee. He graduated from Aberdeen High School where he was a three-sport athlete in football, baseball and basketball. He went on to graduate from Western Washington University where he self-proclaimed such mastery in a basketball gym class that the head basketball coach offered him a spot on the team — to which he declined — to focus on his studies.

For many years Steve worked as an investment advisor, while also very active in his kids’ sports careers. Known for his “Fresca” award for the hardest working player on his basketball team, Steve inspired his children and friends to work hard and enjoy each moment as if it was their last. One of his greatest qualities was his ability to stay open to the possibility that each day was worth enjoying to the fullest. Steve enjoyed cooking and would frequently proclaim that whatever meal he just made that day was the “best he’d ever had.”

Steve was able to make friends with a vast spectrum of people, constantly excited by small, everyday conversations, remaining curious as to how others chose to live their lives. He loved to play golf, Frisbee, and ping pong, but above all else to support his children in chasing their passions. From putting in a basketball court in the backyard, to a sand ping pong court, to countless hours driving his kids to games, tournaments, camps and training sessions.

Donations can be made in Steve’s memory to the Taylor Ferris Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Life Christian Foundation, 1717 S. Union Ave., Tacoma WA 98405. His son Taylor (with former wife Deannie) was an elite golfer who passed in April 2015.

Steve will be deeply missed for his light personality and selflessness.