The animal kingdom shared a sigh of relief today as Stephen Robert Hess (aka Deerslayer, aka Bear Hunter, aka Buffalo Assassin), moved on to finally rest in the arms of God. Surrounded by those who loved him most and some trophies of woodland creatures that had the misfortune of crossing his path. Steve’s courageous quest to conquer pancreatic cancer ended on Nov. 27, 2011. It is a commonly held belief that if cancer could be wiped out with a rifle, shotgun, bow or fishing pole he would have vanquished that too.

Steve was born in South Dakota to Francis and Genevieve Hess and raised in the Catholic faith and attended Catholic school. Steve delighted in telling stories about the nuns and could still recite the Catholic Mass in Latin, something he loved to do to anyone that would listen. Steve graduated from high school in Albert Lea, attained a business degree and had many crazy stories of things to do instead of studying from Mankato State College. Steve served in the armed services and then moved to Las Vegas (the first of five times) to create even more memorable stories of “life in the fast lane.” Later he returned to Albert Lea to open Hess Furniture with his father Francis.

He met Jodi Johansen and married her on Jan. 21, 1978. A few years later he embarked on a radio/marketing career that both encompassed and enriched the rest of his days. In his career he achieved many high honors such as “Man of the Year” and “Small Business of the Year” in Barstow, Calif., in 1991. He was president of A.U.S.A for Fort Irwin and the Marine Corps Logistics Base also in Barstow, “Wizard of Ads” from the Wizard Academy and numerous more. More importantly he was awarded many, many life long friendships that he truly treasured. Steve never met a stranger. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, more hunting, movies, entertaining and above all, just having fun.

Steve is survived by his wife of 33 years, Jodi of Las Vegas, Nev., and two excellent sons: Brady Marshall and Kypp Hunter, both of Las Vegas; sister, Nancy Ferche, and husband, Bob; children: Kim, Jason, Tamara and Cheryl, their spouses and children; brother, Jeramiah Hess, and wife, Carol; children: David and Paul. David’s spouse and children. Sister Peggy Vandersnick and husband Terry; children Shelly, Jeanne, Amy and their spouses and children.

Steve was and always will be magical, and like a true magician the secrets of his many tricks went with him. “A true magician never reveals his source.” But the memories of magical moments, astonished looks and bewildered smiles on the faces of his family and friends, both young and old will live on forever. Perception is reality.

Services will be held at La Paloma, 5450 Stephanie St. No. 110, Las Vegas, NV at 2 p,m. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Creekside Hospice, 3675 Pecos McCleod, Suite 900, Las Vegas, NV 89121, or your favorite charity.