Steve Kohntopp

Steven Wayne Kohntopp passed away at his home in Meridian, Idaho April 6, 2024 with his two daughters and his wife by his side. Steve was born August 2, 1941 in Twin Falls, Idaho. He graduated from Filer High School in 1959 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Central Washington State College in Ellensburg, Washington. In 2001 he earned a Master’s Degree in Archaeology from the University of Leicester in England. He lived most of his life in Filer, ID but also lived in Seattle and Vancouver, WA as well as in Pittsburgh, PA while working for Alcoa Aluminum and in Portland, OR while owning an Arby’s franchise. He then returned to Filer to farm alongside his father, later turning over the demanding day-to-day farming to longtime, trusted friends/ neighbors Steve and Peggy Bean. Spending less time in the fields allowed him to begin a long and successful career in real estate, which he loved.
Steve married Sherry Kimball in 1962, and they were blessed with two daughters, Laurie and Kelley. Steve and Sherry were later divorced. Steve later married Belinda Milam, but after a time, they also were divorced. Gail (Hann) Victor and Steve were married in 1989 and shared over 34 years of wonderful adventures, having been blessed with loving families and fabulous friends.
Steve traveled widely—often to adventurous places involving archaeological study, observation of—and sometimes participation in-- archaeological digs. He also traveled to numerous countries with his wife Gail and often with close friends from his youth, Bob and Carolyn Engle. He also loved to spend time on (or in) the water scuba diving and sailing.
Steve is survived by his wife Gail, his brother Dean (Carolyn) Kohntopp, his daughters Laurie (Tim) Harberd and Kelley (Shane) Havin as well as a step-daughter Kirsten Victor, five grandchildren, and six great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Wilma Kohntopp and a nephew John Kohntopp.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Herrett Center for Arts and Science in Twin Falls, an Alzheimer's research charity of your choice, or the American Cancer Society.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held at the Canyon Crest Event Center in Twin Falls April 27 from 2 PM - 5 PM.