Steven was born on September 19, 1940 to parents Ernest and Hazel (Pladson) Sander in Hatton, ND. Steven attended school in Hatton where he played basketball and baseball. He then attended Mayville State College where he received his teaching degree. He met his wife, Earleen Faye Mehus, in high school and they were married on July 28, 1962 in Hatten, ND. They began their life together in Fordville, ND where Steven started his first teaching position while also coaching. During their time in Fordville, they had their first son James. Four years later, they moved to Fairview where their second son, John, was born. Steve taught in Fairview for 40 plus years while also coaching basketball and teaching Driver’s Education.

Steven enjoyed gardening, yardwork, and watching old sitcoms and the Price is Right. He always looked forward to seeing his grandkids and spending time with them. After Earleen passed away in March of 2008, Steven looked forward to visits from his long-time teaching friend, Ken Babcock.

Steven passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023 at his home in Fairview, Montana.

Steven is preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother.

Steven is survived by his sons, James and John (Brandi); grandchildren, Stephanie, Carrie, Carson, Halee, Nash, and Toren; and great-grandchild, Dillon.