Steven Luggar

Steven Luggar, 54, passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born in 1971 in Kelowna, BC, Steve moved to Kamloops in his early years, where he grew up attending local schools, including John Peterson Jr. Secondary. He was predeceased by his mother, Roxanne, and nephew, James. He is survived by his father and stepmother, Steven and Kathy Palmer; his daughter, Kaitlyn; son, Jarred; stepdaughter, Shaundra; and grandson, Tyson. He is also survived by his brothers, David and Michael; sister, Maria; stepsister, Teresa; and numerous aunts, uncles, nephew, and cousins.

Steve’s greatest joy was his family, especially his children and grandson. Despite health challenges over his final 5½ years that limited his mobility, he remained immensely proud of his children, often sharing their accomplishments with pride. His deepest wish was to see his family reunited.

A dedicated employee at Kamloops Lake City Casino from 1997 to 2015, Steve earned commendations for his exceptional visual recognition skills in security surveillance. His remarkable ability to remember faces and voices—even decades later or during the pandemic when masks obscured features—was a true gift. 

Steve had a real passion for connecting with others. He remained friends with many people throughout his life; once you met him he considered you his friend. Steve’s passion for connection shone through in his love for karaoke, where he sang favorite country songs at local pubs and later organized sessions at The Hamlets, where he resided from 2021. An animal lover, he greeted every pet as a best friend, earning their affection in return.

Growing up, Steve played ball hockey with his brothers and neighborhood friends. He enjoyed attending Kamloops Blazers games in the 1990s, followed sports on TV, and supported Special Olympics athletes as a ringette goalie in 1996–1997. Later, he played softball with colleagues in the early 2000s. His collection of nearly 100 baseball hats, proudly displayed, sparked conversations with visitors.

In 2020, Steve faced a serious illness that required extensive ICU care, followed by multiple health crises over the next 5½ years that took a significant toll on his health. At The Hamlets, he became the unofficial greeter, knowing everyone by name, and managed the community thrift store from its inception until his passing. In his spare time, Steve found solace in painting, creating vibrant designs through paint-pouring and innovative techniques. His artwork, sold to friends and community members, reflected his creativity and resilience during difficult times.

Heartfelt thanks to the staff at The Hamlets for their warmth and care, and to the Royal Inland Hospital ICU team, especially the nurses and doctors, for their compassionate support during Steve’s many health challenges.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 1–3 p.m. at The Westsyder Pub, 3369 Westsyde Rd, Kamloops. Guests are invited to share memories, stories, and dad jokes at an open mic. Steve’s paintings will be displayed. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: