IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Stephen

Stephen Germeau Profile Photo

Germeau

February 14, 1946 – September 15, 2025

Obituary

Steve James Germeau Sr, 79 of Centralia, Washington, passed away peacefully in Pasco, Washington on 9-15-25.   Born on February 14, 1946, in Port Angeles, Washington, Steve was the beloved son of Norm and Florence Germeau. He grew up alongside his siblings, older brother Stan “Bud” Germeau, and younger sister Christina “Tina” Miller. In 1953, the Germeau family relocated to Centralia, where Steve would go on to graduate with Centralia High Class of 1964.   Steve was well known and loved for his flirtatious charm, quick wit, endless jokes, and the humble, heartfelt stories he shared with everyone he met. He took great pride in growing giant pumpkins and cultivating monkey trees from seed, a task requiring patience and care. During high school he owned several cars, each with its own unique character. One was a 1949 Chevrolet that he transformed by cutting off the top, adding a patio umbrella and painting it "Cat Yellow". He also had a 1957 Chevrolet with "Mr. Capone" painted on the back panels.  He proudly drove these creations to school and cruising around town. Over the years he collected many Cadillacs, old and newer models. Through it all, he was known for wearing mismatched socks, often saying with a grin, "I have a pair just like them at home".  In his honor, please feel free to wear mismatched socks on the day of his celebration in person or at home.    In 1968, he married Gloria Wright, and together they raised three children: twin sons, Stephen and Michael, and a daughter, Jennifer. After high school, Steve began his career with Dulin Construction and later moved to Thorne Bay, Alaska in the early 1970s. There, he worked for Ketchikan Pulp Company (later known as Louisiana Pacific), where he became a skilled shovel operator and wore many hats throughout his career. Steve had a deep passion for the timber industry, particularly mastering the use of “grapples.”   Though he had kept his home in Centralia, he officially returned to stay in 1987. In 1989, Steve married Sheila Payne Plumb, and they shared many years together until her passing in 2008.   Known affectionately as the “Lawnmower Man,” Steve had a talent for fixing small engines(lawnmowers)and chainsaws. He took pride in helping friends and neighbors with their lawns and trimming the trees. He was always ready with a helping hand and a warm smile. Many holiday seasons, he helped Santa visit homes across the community, bringing joy to countless children — a tradition that reflected his jolly spirit and generous heart.   Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Norm and Florence Germeau; his son, Michael Germeau; Gloria Wright Roberts; Sheila Payne Germeau; and many Aunts and Uncles.   He is survived by his son, Stephen James Germeau Jr . and wife Lisa; his daughter, Jennifer Terry, and husband Philip; his brother, Stan Germeau; his sister, Tina Miller and Oscar Orloskey; his Grandchildren: Katrina, Lindsey, Joshua, Jessica, Stephanie, Michael, Michelle and Alexis, and many Great Grandchildren along with many extended family members, and dear friends.   A Celebration of Life will be held on: October 18, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM American Legion Grant Hodge Post 17,  111 W Main St, Centralia, WA In his honor, please feel free to wear mismatched socks on the day of his celebration in person or at home. He would be privileged by this kind act.  Please bring your stories, memories, and love as we gather to honor the life of Steve Germeau.   In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Steve’s Memory.

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