Valentine A. Steiner

Valentine (Val) Alexander Steiner passed away early Friday morning on March 14, 2014 at the age of 85. Val was born July 2, 1928 in Mott, ND to Joseph and Magdalene (Barth) Steiner, the youngest brother in a family of 15 children. Val grew up on the family farm learning the strong work ethic he was noted for. Known for his impressive dancing skills, he was a favorite at all the many dances held in the area. But one girl caught his eye, Rosella (Rosie) Hamann. He set his cap for her and with the permission of her folks he married her on October 1, 1952. They soon had their first of 4 boys, Rick, and Val was drafted to service his country. The army moved them to Texas where their next two sons Russell (Rusty) and Randal (Randy), were born. Eventually, Val got into the construction business and became know for his quality work and honesty. In the 60’s Val and Rosie moved to Bozeman, MT to continue building and this is where the last of their 4 boys, Robert, was born. For four decades, Val and Rosie helped shape the town of Bozeman. It’s hard to find a neighborhood in town that doesn’t have one of his houses in it. Val’s reputation for good sturdy houses for not a lot of money reflected his generous nature. He had integrity and was trustworthy. He even would sometimes draw a house plan on a napkin and seal the deal with a handshake. His natural talent for teaching and limitless patience came in handy when passing on the trade to his boys. Val worked hard and provided well but never missed the opportunity to play hard too. Camping, water skiing and horseback riding were among the many fun activities he did with his family. Val and Rosie always seemed to find time to dance even after a long day’s work. Family was the most important thing and he showed his boys what it was to be a good man, a great husband and father. Perhaps Val’s greatest accomplishment was that of “Grandpa”. It seems every picture of him has a grand baby on his lap. Endless hours of pulling kids around on a blanket or patiently teaching them something was the norm. More than anything, they just know he treasured them and would always make time for them. He never forgot his daughters-in-law either, treating them all like the precious daughter he never had. Sweet and supportive was his style. Knowing that that they loved his boys was all he needed. This sweet and gentle man left us on Friday, and we will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, his infant daughter Debbie, son Randy, 6 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his wife Rosie; sons Rick (Kay) Steiner of Belgrade, MT, Rusty (AnDee) Steiner of Gillette, WY, and Robert (Nancy) Steiner of Bozeman, MT; 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; 2 brothers, 4 sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. A vigil service will be held 7:00 PM Wednesday, March 19, 2014 at Dahl Funeral Chapel. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 AM, Thursday, March 20, 2014 at Resurrection University Catholic Parish. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.dahlcares.com.