It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and uncle, Steve Irving, who left us far too soon. Steve passed away peacefully in the morning hours of December 17, 2025, in Lethbridge, Alberta.
Steve was born on October 2, 1959, in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, to Marilynn and James Irving.
He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Marilynn and James; his wife, Samantha McGovern; his daughter, Tammy Risling, and her husband, Ryan; his stepdaughter, Amber Foster, and her husband, Mark; his younger sister, Penny; his nephew; and his cherished grandchildren, Liam Foster and Christina Risling.
Steve could never be described as quiet. He lived life with a big smile, a boisterous and infectious laugh, and no shortage of quips and jokes. He had a way of drawing people in—always ready for good conversation, a drink, and, of course, a bad joke or three.
He deeply loved his family and the adventures they shared, from hiking in Waterton and camping in Beaver Mines to fishing trips (even if they rarely caught more than rocks or trees). He especially treasured family summers in Vernon, British Columbia, spent with his parents and his close friend Benny and Benny’s family. Steve delighted in time with his grandchildren and was well known for offering them ever-changing stories about how he lost his middle finger—ranging from a giant pike while fishing, to sharks, and even the mysterious Ogopogo of Okanagan Lake.
Steve was an avid fan of baseball, both watching and playing the game, and he greatly enjoyed history in all its forms, from ancient times to World War II.
We were blessed to share our lives with him.
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