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Steven Gill

LEWISTON, ID-Steven Jeffery Gill, 71, of Palouse, WA, passed away on August 2, 2025 at Cascadia of Lewiston in Lewiston, ID after a long illness.

Steve was born on June 1, 1954 in Fairbanks, AK to Gordon and Janice (Coles) Gill. He grew up in Marquette, MI and received Bachelors and Masters Degrees at Northern Michigan University. Steve then moved to Pullman, WA where he was awarded a PhD in botany from Washington State University. He continued to reside in Washington and Idaho for the rest of his life.

Steve dedicated much of his life to academic pursuits. Professionally he was many things – a scholar, a research scientist, a botanist and a dedicated professor. He was highly respected as a prolific author and his writings were published in distinguished scientific publications, numerous magazines and a popular field guide. He also enjoyed artistic activities and was an accomplished painter.

Traveling was another of Steve’s passions. He traveled frequently throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, China and Africa. He was always interested in learning about other cultures and spent a great deal of time living and doing research at Neah Bay, WA with the Makah Native Americans. Steve was one of only a small number of individuals that learned the Makah language.

On a personal level, many viewed Steve as a unique, well-read individual with the ability to converse intelligently on a wide variety of topics. His knowledge was boundless. This made him a welcome addition to many social events and professional and community gatherings. He was admired and respected by those who knew him.

Steve was kind to everyone he encountered. As an uncle he displayed a keen interest in the lives of his nieces and nephews. Being empathetic, he was always ready to listen to them, with patience and understanding, and to offer good sound advice. Steve will be missed!

Steve is survived by his sister, Cynthia Butler; his brother, Thomas (Nancy) Gill; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Janice Gill.

A graveside service will be held at Park Cemetery in Marquette at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Steve’s memory to the Makah Cultural and Research Center, PO Box 160, Neah Bay, WA 98357.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Steve’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com