Stephen James Hale, 31, died Monday morning, May 15, 2023, at 4:15 a.m. as the result of a tragic car accident.

He was born August 2, 1991, in Montgomery, Alabama, as an Air Force brat. He moved with his family to Del Norte County in June 1995.

His main purpose in life is to aggravate his two older brothers (and earliest teachers at Redwood). Stephen was always, from birth, on the move -- running, jumping and climbing. Always on the go.

He spent time at Sunday School assisting with the younger kids at our church, New Life Community in Crescent City. He helped teach and gave out snacks during Sunday School. With his long legs and slender body, he made sure that no one got hurt or lost.

Stephen's greatest pride and joy was his son (Kyler) and daughter (Kaylee). He always had a soft spot for children. He maintained a zest for life that kept him young and a fun daddy. Stephen worked a variety of jobs, the last being a server at Denny’s.

When Stephen's grandfather was sick, he spent every weekend and school days off, watching grandpa’s cowboys on the TV. They watched Gunsmoke, Rawhide and, of course, John Wayne in Red River.

Stephen will be remembered by his son, Kyler Duane Hale (12), his daughter, Kaylee June Hale (8), and their mother, Lindsey Weiland, of Redding.

His memory survives through his mother, Mary Anne Hale, of Crescent City. He is also survived by his father, J. L. Hale, of Canada, sister Cherlyn, of Washington State, brother Eric Hale and family of Oregon City, Oregon, and Wesley Hale of Fairfield, California. He leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

I hide my tears when I say your name, but the pain in my heart is still the same. Although I smile, and seem carefree, there is no one who misses you more than me.

Meet me at the river, my son.

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