"Steph"

We put Steph's boat in the water at the Landing in April. We wanted him to get better. Like Molly, Russell, Hudson and Penny, we relied on Steph for so much. Leadership, strength, knowledge and his unwavering commitment to his family and to Camp Tanamakoon, Bartlett Lodge and The Pines.

Steph's boat was like Steph. It was not fancy, it didn't have a big motor, it was a solid, steady workboat. If a boat could be unassuming, Steph's boat was just that. Steph was unassuming, but he was much, much more than that!

Recently, the word "Legend" has been attached to his life and his accomplishments as a husband, father, brother, friend, leader, adviser and employee.

A "legend" has different meanings to different people: Is a "Legend" someone whose life is defined by the word "commitment"? If so, his commitment to his family is legendary. Years ago I asked him about his tattoos. The one he pointed to immediately was the one that represented, "family is everything". Steph lived that everyday of his life. As a brother to 3 sisters and 2 brothers he was loved and idolized by each of them. They have lost their "Legend".

Is a "Legend" someone who can solve problems, fix anything, build buildings, operate water and sewage systems, fell trees, fight fires, supervise employees and have time to talk to campers and staff about anything?

Is a"Legend" someone who I have never heard anyone say abad word about? Our seasonal business means that there are many employees and campers who have come and gone over the past 25 years. Steph developed a wide,wide circle of people, many of whom became his friends. Never, over the past 25 years did I ever hear anyone say an unkind word about Steph. To many of these people, he is a "Legend".

For me knowing "I'll just call Steph, he can do it", is gone. Imagine the privilege it has been to have had that dedication from one person for more than 25 years. Steph was always there to take care of everything.

Steph was and always will be a "Legend" for our family and for all of us. His boat is still in the water, other people may use it, but no one can ever replace him.

Steph was, is, and always will be a "Legend" in Algonquin Park, at Camp Tanamakoon and Bartlett Lodge. The wound in our hearts is deep. Our memories of Steph, who he was, and what he achieved in his far too short life, stays with us. Our "Legend" is gone. Our sadness and grief remains.

Kim Smith, July 10*, 2024

Stephan Laurence April 15th, 1976 to July 8th, 2024