Leon Goodell

Leon "Stephen" Goodell passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025, in Billings, Montana, at the age of 72, surrounded by loved ones. Steve battled health complications for many years after his remission from cancer in 2006. In his last few weeks, his condition quickly worsened. He then made the brave decision to cease treatment, a choice that led to his peaceful passing just days later.

Steve was born in Redfield, South Dakota, on October 4, 1952 to Ward and Helen Goodell. At a young age, Steve was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Cora, who became his guiding light. To Steve, Cora could do no wrong, and she felt the same about him. He held her love close to his heart throughout his life.

Steve grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, attending Mountain View Elementary, Nathan Hale Junior High, and Benson High School. One of his fondest memories was attending dress-up dinners with his friends at Nathan Hale—small moments of joy that stayed with him forever.

In December of 1971, Steve married his first wife, Debra Herd, and together they welcomed four wonderful daughters into the world. In 1983, he moved to Billings, Montana, where he built a life rooted in love, family, and service to his community.

In 1987, Steve joined the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, dedicating over 30 years to mentoring and supporting young people. Through his work, he touched countless lives, forming deep bonds with colleagues and guiding those in need with quiet strength and compassion. It was at the Ranch where he met his wife, Deb Carlson, and his bonus daughter, Heather. They married in 1990, blending their families and later welcoming Steve's only son, Stephen—a blessing Steve had always hoped for. In 1993, Steve gave his life to the Lord and was baptized, a significant moment that shaped his faith.

Steve was a man of few words, but spoke with intention. He had a way of putting people at ease, making each person he met feel valued and heard. His presence was steady, calm, and strong—never needing to be the center of attention, yet always at the heart of his family. His children were his world, and nothing brought him greater joy than being a father and grandfather.

A true outdoorsman, Steve found peace in fishing and hunting, passions he shared with his brothers, children, and friends. The water and wilderness were where he felt most at home, creating memories that will live on through the stories of those who loved him. He cherished his evenings hot tubbing and playing games with Mark, Jan, and Deb, as well as their trips to Mexico, filling his life with laughter and good company. He and Mark also shared a love for Lynyrd Skynyrd, a soundtrack to many of their best memories together.

Steve is survived by his wife, Deborah Goodell; his daughters, Sandra Portolese (Matt), Christy Goodell, Tiffany Cora Goodell, and Heather Carlson; his son, Stephen Goodell (Auguste); his siblings, Fred Goodell (Cathy), Patty Miller (David), Mark Goodell (Jann), and David Goodell (Tammy); 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at Dahl's Funeral Chapel on Thursday February 27 at 4:00 PM, followed by a reception at Highland Elementary School at 5:00 PM.

To everyone who shared life, love, and memories with Steve—thank you. He was a wonderful man, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.