Stephen Shimpei Sakaguchi, was born June 24, 1978 in Palmer, Alaska to Wendy Lynn and Jim (James Gary) Sakaguchi. Stephen was taken unexpectedly Saturday, March 10, 2012. Although his life was short, those who had the incredible opportunity to meet and know Stephen will always be touched by his compassion and love for others._x000D_
Stephen attended grade school and high school in Plains, Montana. In 1989, Stephen’s father Jim Sakaguchi was killed in a river accident when Stephen was 9 years old. Stephen Joined the United States Marine Corp Reserves after graduating high school. _x000D_
In 1993, Wendy married John Kleker who was father figure, mentor and a great friend to Stephen. Stephen also attended the Helena Vo-Tech and took one year of carpentry. Stephen was a master craftsman and loves to build homes. After graduation Stephen started his own construction company – Sakaguchi, Inc for 12 years. Stephen especially put the most detail in the homes he built for his family. Stephen most recently worked for Sussex Construction. In August 2000 he married July Kay Zimmerman and together had two children Maci Kei (9 years old) and Jacob James (4years old). _x000D_
Stephen’s greatest pleasure in life were his children. Stephen was always the best father they could ask for. He will always be with his children in their hearts and dreams and will be watching over them from above in all of their life adventures._x000D_
Stephen was an amazing father, son and friend and will be deeply missed by all and we know he is now in the arms of Jesus._x000D_
Stephen is preceded in death by his father James Sakaguchi, grandparents Gloria and Vern Stanton. He is survived by his mother and stepfather John and Wendy Kluker, his children and their mother, Maci, Jacob, and Julie Sakaguchi and various aunts and uncles. His mother and father in-law Mike and Gail Zimmerman, brothers in-law Kelly, John, David, Tim and Steve Zimmerman._x000D_
Memorial services will be held 10 AM, Friday, March 16, 2012 at the Helena Alliance Church located at 1030 Choteau Street. Graveside services will follow at Forestvale Cemetery. Family is requesting in lieu of flowers contributions can be made in the names of Maci and Jacob Sakaguchi at American Federal Savings Bank. Big Sky Cremations is assisting the family with the services.
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Chet says
Unfortunately my relationship with Steve was not as long or close as many others, but the experiences and memories I have of him are that he was honestly one of the kindest, considerate, and good hearted fella’s I ever met. I believe he had that same effect on many others, and though the world will now be without Steve, the positive impact he had on so many and the great memories he left behind will last forever.
My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends.
With deepest sympathy,
Chet
The Root's says
Sakaguchi and Zimmerman Families
Thinking of you all in this difficult time.
Stephen will forever be in your memories and your heart.
Remember the happy times.
And know that the Guardian Angels will keep him safe until
you meet again.
Mike,Mary,Ruby,LeeAnna & John Root
Darin Stanley says
I didn’t get to know Stephen for very long, but what I got to know is that he was a great man with a heart of gold. I will be praying for your family.
Kari Shirley says
Julie, Maci and Jacob–You are in our thoughts and prayers!
Vicki Thomas says
May you find strength in the love of family and in the warm embrace
of friends.
With deepest sympathy
Vicki Thomas
Vonnie says
Julie –
I so sorry to hear of the loss of Steve. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. God bless you
Mike Schaar says
Steven was one of a kind and such a great guy. It was a joy growing up with him and spending time with him. I have many, many fond memories of and I will never forget them! My condolences to Wendy, the kids, and the rest of the family – and to all of our friends who feel this great loss as equally as I do. Much love and much respect for you Steven – always. Cheers bro (Sak). I thank God for your life.
Brandon Thoeny says
Sak you and your family are in our prayers may all who know you find comfort during these difficult times. Rest in Peace old friend
Sally Miller says
I am so very sorry. Stephen was an awesome man. I am sitting here remembering when he and I went to Portland to see Pat. What a great time we had. He was a fixture in my home for a few years and what a joy… I am so saddened and my heart aches for your loss and pain. He touched so many lives.
Jackie Dunbar says
Julie and family, I am so sad to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
Kim says
Julie– so sorry to hear about Stephen. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Tina Crum says
Julie, Maci, Jacob & Family – I think we are all still in shock. Julie, if you need ANYTHING, please don’t hesitate to call okay? Stephen will be greatly missed. He had the best dimpled smile! He could always make people around him feel comfortable and make them smile & laugh. May the Lord Bless You and Keep You Close During This Difficult Time.
Much Love,
Tina
Donny and Sherry Hearn says
Just want you to know that you have a former church family back home praying for you at this sad and difficult time, and though we all don’t have the right words to say, we know the Holy Spirit will help get our message through of love and tenderness to you and yours at this difficult time.
Eric Wells says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Debbie Buckingham says
I am so sorry for your loss, Stephen was a great person and always had a warm smile and big heart. He will be greatly missed
Jan Wood says
My thoughts & prayers are going out to the Sakaguchi family. Stephen was a bank customer of mine & when I worked at Home Depot part-time in Helena, he would bring the kids in & he always had a smile on his face & was such a polite & friendly guy. My heart breaks to hear of your loss.
Karli Sturgill (Koutnik) says
My heart is with you Julie…I have never met your children, but I can only send them my best.
You and “Sak” brought me many smiles on those long Sunday shifts at Country Harvest.
I am just so very sorry.
Hugs all around, Karli
Laura McArdle says
I worked with Stephen at Farm Bureau Insurance and was shocked to hear of your loss. He was a great guy with a good senses of humor. Your family is in my prayers.
Kevin Weaver says
Julie, I am so sorry for your loss. Although, I didn’t know too well, but I would I did know, was that he was an amazing guy and very kind to everyone. You are your family are in my thoughts and prayers.