Steven Furgason, age 74, of Spokane Valley passed away on July 19, 2026 in Spokane, Washington. Steven “Steve” Ray Furgason was born on May 23, 1952 in Spokane, Washington to Ival Furgason and Blanche Kennedy. He grew up with his two sisters gallivanting through his neighborhood, exploring the Spokane River, playing sports, and getting into mischief.

Steve graduated from Rogers High School in 1970. While in high school, he met his future wife Teresa Lamanna. They were married in 1972. During this time Steve started working at School District 81 as a beloved custodian while building his family and earning his teaching degree from EWU. Steve and Terri soon moved to Spokane Valley where they raised their three children. Through his 43-year-long career with the school district, including nearly three decades of teaching 5th grade at Audubon Elementary, Steve used his sharp wit, love of stories, and natural ability to connect with kids. He exemplified the value of hard work, working summers that eventually turned into spending 30+ years with Spokane Parks and Recreation.

Steve was always ready to lend a hand, whether on homework, car repairs, holiday dishes, or sprinkler systems. He loved playing recreational softball and was an invested spectator at his kids’ and grandkids’ games and events. Most importantly, he was a loving and present dad and “Papa” to his 18 grandkids and “Precious Papa” to two great-grandkids, from hosting many food and laughter-filled Saturdays to random cookie deliveries. Steve leaves behind a legacy of generosity, hard work, and innumerable cherished memories. He will be dearly missed.

Steve is survived by his children Jamie (Jeremy) Lyerla, Joe (Cathy) Furgason, and Nick (Annali) Furgason; his grandchildren, Madison (Dustin) McRae, Aiden, Liam, Danek, Owen, Olivia, Robinson, and Geneva Lyerla; Eleanor, Jack, Greta, Creed, Amelia, and Eben Furgason; Henry, Beckham, Audrey, and John Furgason; his great-grandchildren Zoia and Darian McRae; his sister Cathy (John) Smith. Steve is preceded in death by his beloved wife Teresa Lamanna, and his sister Sharon Pichette.

A memorial service will be held at 6pm on July 30, 2026 at Chattaroy Community Church, 3711 E Chattaroy Road, Chattaroy, Washington 99003.