Edward James "Jim" Steck

June 10, 1960 – July 14, 2025

Edward James "Jim" Steck, of Pullman, WA, passed away peacefully at home on July 14, 2025, with his family lovingly by his side.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife of over 40 years, Shelly Steck; his three sons, Matt Steck, Jeff (Shelby) Steck, and Jared (Ericka) Steck; his sister, Mary Ellen (Mike) Jablonski; his brother, David (Kaye) Steck; his son-in-law, Kylan Robinson; and his six beloved grandchildren—Lainey, Graham, Henry, Brody, Hazel, and Braylee—who brought him endless joy.

Born on June 10, 1960, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jim grew up in the St. Louis area and earned a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from St. Louis University.

He met the love of his life, Shelly, in Quincy, Illinois, and they were married on October 20, 1984, in Sugarloaf Township, IL. Together, they settled in St. Louis, where they began building a life and raising their family. Jim began his working career serving as a sheriff's deputy with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, proudly adopting the call sign "Jeffco658"—a badge of honor he carried with him throughout his life.

He later transitioned into a successful career in insurance, working as an agent and agency manager for Country Financial, and later as a financial services consultant and agency coach with State Farm Insurance. His work led the family to the Pacific Northwest and eventually back to Illinois, where they made their home in Normal for the next twenty years. In 2023, Jim and Shelly moved to Pullman, Washington, to be closer to family.

Jim was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His family was his greatest joy, and he was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. Whether cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, fishing and boating, camping under the stars, traveling to new places, or simply enjoying time at home with his puppies, Jim lived with purpose and heart.

He found community and spiritual comfort at Concordia Lutheran Church in Pullman, where he worshiped faithfully.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Ellen (Boyce) Steck; his daughter, Kristen Robinson; and his sister, Cathy Steck Baird.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the Pullman City Cemetery, where Jim will be laid to rest beside his beloved daughter, Kristen.

Jim had a deep love for Great Pyrenees dogs and enjoyed rescuing and caring for them over the years. In honor of Jim's compassionate heart, the family kindly requests donations be made in his name to Great Pyrenees rescue efforts through https://nationalpyr.org/ or directly to https://www.greatpyrsandpaws.org/animals/

Jim's legacy of love, strength, and devotion to his family will live on in all who knew and loved him.