Steven "Steve" Gerald Samuel Armour

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we share the sudden passing of Steven Gerald Samuel Armour on June 22, 2025, at his home. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Steve touched the lives of many with his kindness, humour, and unwavering work ethic.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife and life partner of 45 years, Debbie, whom he always affectionately called "my little girl." Together, they shared a deep and enduring love, marrying in Maui, Hawaii on February 28, 1990, after ten wonderful years together. Their celebration with friends and family followed that May at the Canoe Hall.

He is also lovingly remembered by his son Tyler, daughter-in-law Andrea (Andi), and cherished grandsons Logan and Linden, who were his pride and joy. His siblings Judy, Gail, Ron, and Brian, along with extended family and many dear friends, will forever hold him in their hearts.

Born in Duncan, BC on January 9, 1953, Stevie found his calling early in life. At just 15, he began working in groundskeeping and landscaping. He joined School District #89 (Shuswap) in April 1974, eventually pursuing further education in Turf Grass Management and Horticulture at Fairview College in northern Alberta. Though he considered a career managing a golf course, his passion for landscaping led him to start his own business in 1980.

In July 1986, Steve began a 22-year career with the City of Salmon Arm in the gardening and landscaping department. He retired from the district in January 2008, but continued to run his landscaping company on the side - leaving behind a legacy of beautiful designs still admired throughout the community.

Steve's love for nature was evident in all he did. Every morning was, to him, "a cheerful invitation." Time spent among trees, gardens, and lakes was never wasted. He was known for his creativity, his meticulous work, and his friendly, positive spirit. Steve had a gift for conversation and always made time for a smile and a laugh. Many remember him as one of their favourite people.

Steve and Deb shared a love of boating on the Shuswap in their antique wooden cruiser, and often explored the region's small lakes with their beloved dogs, fishing rods in tow.
For 16 years, they traveled to Costa Rica each winter, falling deeply in love with the culture, people, and ocean fishing dreaming of making it their full-time home. Their final trip was especially joyful, bringing their youngest grandson Linden along to share in the magic.

In the fall of 2024, Steve officially sold his business and stepped into full retirement. Though brief, he embraced every moment— enjoying a cold drink, playing daily games of gin rummy with Deb, and reflecting on a life filled with love, purpose, and beauty.

Steve was an incredibly hard-working, reliable, and creative soul. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his warmth, humour, landscape artistry, and the joy he brought to so many.

"My mind still talks to you.
My heart will forever hold you."

A celebration of Steve's life will be announced at a later date.

Well, I guess life's a journey that will take many years.

Some days are filled with laughter; some days are filled with tears.

Some day's I think my heart will break with you no longer here, I sit & cry, look up to the sky and know the rain is your tears.

Beyond the heavens I think you are, I see you in the sun, I see you when the birds fly by, I see you when I'm down. I see you in the shooting stars that soar through the night. For you my love, I'll live out our dreams, but 1st  I'll sit and cry.

There will be no more tomorrows for us, but you'll always be my today, the love I have for you my love will never fade away.

Thank you for your endless love you gave me everyday for all the memories, for all our times we spent together will never go away. I love you, Steve.

- Tyler Armour