We would like to share the journey of Steven Neel Pettit, a true cowboy at heart and an avid horseman.

Steven was a kind, caring, and loving man, always ready with a big smile for everyone he met. He earned the trust, respect, and admiration of all who knew him. Steve was often the last person to leave an party, as he loved sharing stories with friends and family.

Raised on a ranch in Bayside by his wonderful parents, Neel and Neoma Pettit, Steven lived a colorful life. He spent his days riding horses, competing in horse shows, gymkhanas, and rodeos. He rode bucking broncs and bulls, trained and shod horses, and passed on his knowledge to younger riders. Steven was also a proud member of a horse drill team, The Pegasus Patrol.

In addition to his love for horses, Steven had a passion for racing dirt bikes and street motorcycles. He also enjoyed making all kinds of wine from fruit. Later in life, alongside his loving companion of 29 years, Teresa “Mo” Wold, who has since passed, Steven rode two Harleys, embracing the freedom of the open road. They rode like the wind!

Steven was a member of The Fog Dogs club, where he and Teresa enjoyed many memorable rides.

He leaves behind a legacy through his children: son Samuel Sprague, daughter Coressa Eriksen, and grandchildren, Chase and Erin. He is also survived by his loving stepdaughter, Rachel Bommgarden, her husband Chris, and their children, Haey and Emilie, as well as a stepson, Jason Wold. Steven’s loving sister, Judy Walker, and brother, Darren Pettit, mourn his passing. He shared a close bond with his nephew, Jeffrey Walker, and loving nieces, Leslie Walker Wespremi, Laurie Walker Hill, and Shayla Pettit.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents, his little brother Brian, sister Allison, and beloved Teresa Wold.

Steven served in the Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Hancock. He wrote scores of letters to his family back home, not about himself, but about his family’s well-being. He asked about how Dad’s truck was doing, Brian’s bike racing, and Mom’s garden. These letters, which we still have, reflect his deep love for family and friends, whom he valued above all else.

Steven will truly be missed, now and forever. Until we meet again.

A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 28 at Perigot Park, 301 Chartin Rd., Blue Lake, at 1 p.m.

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