Son of Alexander Vaness Stephens and Angelena Van DaalenDescendant of Mormon pioneersLittle brother to John, Robert, Wallace, Roy, Verna and Dale. Big brother to ShirleyPeacemaker in the familyWhistling prodigyBest pals and co-mischief-maker with Doug Stephens Fell in love in 3rd grade with that cute Gwen EllisRode the rails washing dishes, spreading his wings from Ogden to San FranciscoEnlisted in the US Navy just short of his 18th birthdayServed his country during WWII in the South Pacific Theater Fought in the Battle of Leyte Gulf for the liberation ofthe PhilippinesMarried, Gwenny, the love of his life, April 4, 1945, Salt Lake LDS TempleMoved his bride to California and raised a family, Dale, Kathleen, Lynette MarkHardwired to workBuilt and moved, moved and built Whatever was there he improved, whatever was needed he built a stall, a fence, a greenhouse or a place for "the grandparents" to liveRancher, beekeeper, teacher and friend A dreamer, a poet, a planner, an optimistGenerous, grateful, wise and patientLoved bulldogs and sheepdogs, horses and bulls Raspberries, pepper and "the mothers" raisin cake Never without a toothpick, Chapstick or a ready handshakeSun worshipper, pilot, hunter and fishermanStoryteller, book lover, a wildcard with a commentLover of traditions, Luke 2, the flag and the war roomExample of integrity, fine craftsmanship and a true gentlemanPatriot, veteran, honored those who servedExpected the best of us, gave the best of himself, saw the best in everythingTaught us through his prayers and acts of kindnessHe was a grower of all good thingschildren, hydrangeas, tomatoesDevoted husband and loving father Called Papa Lee by 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren He helped us all to live well and be better people