STEvEN BudESKI, obituary

Steven Budeski, 55, of Great Falls and formerly of Havre, died of cancer Friday, March 20, 2009, at Peace Hospice.

His memorial service will be held at Hillcrest Lawn Chapel on Thursday, March 26, 2009, at 1 p.m. Schnider Funeral Home is handling arrangements. Steven R. Budeski died Friday, March 20, 2009, after a courageous battle with cancer. Steve was born to Richard and Hazel Budeski Sept. 28, 1953, in Great Falls. He attended Great Falls Public Schools graduating from C.M. Russell High School in 1971. Steve was active in Boy Scouts where he enjoyed the campouts, especially Camp Napi on St. Mary's Lake where he hiked through Glacier Park. He also enjoyed hiking through the "Bob," where he requests his ashes to be spread. After graduating, Steve lived life to the fullest, eventually settling down in Havre. Steve turned to his skill as a drywaller, which took him all over, including Medford, Ore. And Alaska, then returning to Havre to start his own business, Northern Interiors He was very meticulous and took pride in his work. Steve's other interests included fishing, where he speared a 33.8 pound northern pike at Fresno Lake. He still holds the record. He loved hunting, camping and anything in the big outdoors. Even though he never married or had children, he loved his family, especially the nieces and nephews. He would just light up when they were around him Survivors include his mother, Hazel Budeski of Craig; brothers Bill (LeAnn) Budeski and Jim (Colleen) Budeski; sister, nephews Kristi, Kerri, Jamie, Jolene, Nick, Michael and Jessica; great-niece, Taylee; and great-nephews Chase, Clay and Garrett; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins. He was preceded in death by his cat and number one companion, "Big Red," his father, Richard Budeski in 2003; and his grandparents Marie and William Budeski and Art and Olive Luoma. Memorials are suggested to Peace Hospice, 1101 26th St. S., Great Falls, MT 59405; Boy Scouts of America, 820 17th Ave. S. , Great Falls, MT 59405; or to a charity of the donor's choice. Condolences for the family may be left at http://www.schniderfuneralhome. com.