Stephen Douglas Wilcox went to play guitar music with the angels during the early morning hours of June 2, 2025.

Born on October 20, 1943, in Greeley, Colorado, to Kenneth and Anna Wilcox, Steve's early years were spent on ranches across Colorado, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana. He grew up riding horses, working the land, and playing cowboy music with his family, experiences that shaped his love for agriculture, music, and the Western way of life.

Steve met Carol when his family purchased her family's ranch on the Tongue River near Miles City, Montana. They married on June 12, 1965, beginning a partnership built on love, faith, and hard work. Together, they raised their children—Layne, Lauri, MiAnne, and Marcus—instilling in them a deep appreciation for family and community.

Education was important to Steve. He earned degrees in Agricultural Education from Montana State University (BS '72, MS '75) and spent 25 years teaching as a Vo Ag and Ag Ed Instructor and FFA Advisor in Kalispell, where he shaped the lives of many students and future agricultural leaders. He enjoyed taking students into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, and he developed an Equine Science curriculum. His dedication extended beyond the classroom, creating lasting bonds with his students and colleagues.

After retiring from teaching, Steve and Carol took on a ranching position in Sheridan, Montana. Steve served as the Western Director for the Montana Stockgrowers Association 2006-2010. They then established the High Tower Ranch Bed, Breakfast, and Farm Stay in Twin Bridges with Layne and Candy, sharing their passion for ranch life and hospitality with guests from all walks of life.

Faith and music were constants in Steve's life. A devoted Catholic, he played guitar for Mass in every community he called home, offering his talent in service of faith-filled gatherings and retreats. A gifted musician who learned to play by ear, he performed in bands throughout his life, most recently with the Ruby Valley Boys and Barbwire, bringing joy to those around him through song.

Steve faced his cancer diagnosis in January 2023 with courage and grace, surrounded by the love and support of his family and friends. The family extends appreciation to the staff of Honey Bee Hospice for their care and support.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Anna; his brothers, Herb and Tim; grandchildren, Cooper and Wyatt Morin; and son-in-law, Chad Morin.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol; his children, Layne (Candy) Wilcox, Lauri (Russ) Olsen, MiAnne Morin, and Marcus (Jolene) Wilcox; his grandchildren, Emily (Gavin)

Olsen Johnson, Hailee Olsen, Hudson Morin, Lynsie Olsen, Kendal Morin, Sierra and Taylor Wilcox; and great-granddaughters, Marlo and Nadia Johnson. He is also survived by his sister, Patti (Ron) Mogen; brother, Mike (Sandy Jo) Wilcox; sister-in-law, Kay Wilcox; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Steve's legacy lives on in the music he played, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared. His songs will continue to echo through the lives of those who knew him, a testament to a life well lived. Memorial Donations may be made in Steve's memory to the Montana FFA Foundation, PO Box 1548, Columbus, MT 59019.

Funeral Mass will be held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Dillon on Friday, June 20. The Rosary will be at 10:00 am followed by the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will then be at Sheridan Cemetery followed by a Reception and Celebration of Life at High Tower Ranch, 819 Middle Road, Twin Bridges.