Steven Earl Kadow was called to his Heavenly home on Tuesday, July 26, after suffering a massive stroke. Steve was born in Vancouver, Washington, on Aug. 18, 1953, to Roy and Beulah (Boots) Kadow. Steve was raised with his five siblings on the Columbia River. He married Marlene Tikka in 1980, and they raised their children in Vancouver, Washington. He was a junior high teacher in the Evergreen School District for 17 years while working as a painter and longshoreman on weekends and summer breaks. In 1995, Steve became a full-time longshoreman working at the West Coast ports until he retired in 2018. After retirement, Steve and Marlene moved to Toledo, Washington. Steve kept busy the last few years helping and spending time with his children and grandchildren and was working part time at Windsor Engineers.
Steve loved his wife, family and friends so much. His kind and patient nature will always be remembered and missed. He was quick to take care of everyone, putting the needs of others before his own. Steve was a member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. Steve held his Christianity most important and set a precious example for everyone.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Scott Kadow, brothers-in-law, Vaughn Tikka and Howard Loren, and grandson, Franklin Roberts. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Marlene; sons, Lucas (Bethany) of Yacolt, Washington, Spencer (Sheila) of Vancouver, Washington, Colton (Alyson) of Ridgefield, Washington; daughters, Brandi (Bryce) Sarkinen, Ashly (Josh) Roberts both of Brush Prairie, Washington, Natalie (Ryan) Jolma, of Marengo, Wisconsin, and McKenzie Kadow of La Center, Washington; brothers, LeRoy (Tina) Kadow and Lloyd (Beverly) Kadow, of Vancouver; sisters, Gail Loren, of Ridgefield, Washington, and Karen (John) Bietey of Vancouver; sister-in-law, Mary Kadow; 36 grandchildren and numerous sister- and brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral service will be held at The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church of Brush Prairie at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2. His final resting place is at the Brush Prairie Cemetery.
