Steven R Lees

Steven Ross Lees, beloved partner, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away on September 16, 2026, at Porter Hospital in Denver, Colorado — just one week shy of his 67th birthday.

After his father's death, Steve became the man of the house at just 11 years old. From that moment on, he took care of his mom and his sisters, doing everything he could to protect them and keep the family going. 

He grew up in Wallace and Kellogg, Idaho, where he attended Kellogg High School. His childhood was full of adventure — playing baseball, football, and wrestling; floating down the river; camping, fishing, throwing unforgettable house parties; and proudly taking his mom and two sisters for drives in his first car, a green station wagon that became part of family lore. 

Steve’s love for baseball didn’t end in childhood. He was a natural athlete and continued playing into adulthood, joining local softball leagues where crowds often gathered to watch his talent, competitiveness, and sheer joy for the game made those nights unforgettable. 

Steve often wrote poems, sketched pictures, and took his best shot at the guitar. His love for music ran deep, beginning with country and classic rock ’n’ roll. His favorites were 38 Special, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, and Bad Company. He loved sharing music with the people he cared about, even taking his sisters to their first concerts — Julie to see KISS, and Laurie to see America. 

As a young man, Steve worked at the Bunker Hill Zinc Plant under his supervisor, Erwin Zeller, whom he admired for his steady leadership. After those early years, Steve hitch‑hiked across the United States, taking on jobs wherever he landed while trying to heal from the loss of his first love, Cindy Ackerman Lees who lost her life shortly after giving birth to their son, Jason — a loss that stayed with Steve throughout his life. 

In time, Steve married his classmate, Cindy Miller (now Cindy Howe), with whom he welcomed two more beautiful sons, Nathan and Brandon.

After working as a miner, logger, and cook, Steve eventually enrolled in trade school for construction operations — the beginning of the work that would define his career. He later moved to Denver, Colorado, where he worked for Centennial Wood Company, GRB, and Spectrum Construction in both Colorado and California. With unmatched strength and fearlessness, he climbed towers across the country, proud of the work he did and excited to show us the towers he helped build throughout the U.S. 

With zero fear of heights, Steve climbed to the top — literally and figuratively. He became known as one of the best in the field, with the ability to do what most people couldn’t. During those years, he and his then‑partner, Sandra Johnsey (now Sandra Alexander), built Tanner Contracting into a reputable small business. Steve oversaw construction operations and project management, providing leadership and oversight for commercial and residential construction projects throughout the Denver area. 

Steve's last days were spent with his partner of 18 years, Rosanna “Rosie” Fansler, who was his constant companion, his comfort, and one of the people he fought hardest to stay with in his final days. Steve fought with everything he had because he didn’t want to leave Rosie, his boys, or his sisters — but it was time for him to hit home runs again, run with his dog, and climb the tallest tower in Heaven, where he will watch over us until we meet again.

Steve is survived by his life‑partner, Rosanna Fansler; his children, Jason Ross Lees Cooper (Andrea), Nathan Ross Lees (Whitney), and Brandon Everett Lees (Chloe); his grandchildren, Sarah Cooper, Mariah Lees, Ryker Hartman‑Lees, and Amilieah, daughter of Brandon; his sisters, Julie Jumper (husband Les, and her first husband, Merle Zeller) and Laurie Tantalo (Cody); his nephew, Casey Zeller; his grand‑nephew, Xander Zeller; his aunt, Maggie Taylor; and several cousins.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Dolores (Dee) Lees; wife Cindy Ackerman Lees; and his beloved niece, Sherry Lynn Zeller. He is also preceded in death by his cherished dog, Rosebud, who was incredibly loyal to Steve and met him in Heaven! 

Steve will be cremated, as he wished, at Monarch Society in Denver, Colorado and his ashes will rest in both Idaho and Denver. 

Two Celebrations of Life will be held in Steve’s honor — one in Denver, Colorado, in the summer of 2027, and if the Broncos are playing that day, expect them to be part of the celebration. Steve wouldn’t have it any other way. 

The second celebration will take place “up the River” by the Silver Bridge on the Coeur d'Alene River with a reception at the Snake Pit (to be planned). 

We miss you, Steve. One time for old times.