Olson, Steven L. "Steve" After a hard-fought battle with cancer, Steven L. Olson, or "Steve," passed away peacefully and surrounded by family in Scottsdale, Arizona on December 24, 2016 at the age of 61. Steve is survived by his wife Jo Ellen Alberhasky, children Nick and Paige, mother Joanne, and siblings Jeff, Bruce, and Diane. He is preceded in death by his father Doyle, and his in-laws Alois and Joseph Alberhasky. Steve was born on November 3, 1955 in St. Charles, Illinois to Joanne and Doyle Olson. He graduated from St. Charles High School and then DePauw University with degrees in Political Science and Botany, before earning his master's from Colorado State University in Political Science. Steve located in Arizona to work at the Arizona Department of Water Resources. There, he met and married Jo Ellen, the love of his life, in 1988. Steve had an impressive and productive career in water management policy and legislative advocacy, working for state and municipal governments. Later in his career, Steve assisted both the Nature Conservancy and the Environmental Defense Fund to improve water efficiency and management for greater protection and sustainability of the environment. Steve was passionate about the work that he did and fostering a productive dialogue across varying political and business perspectives. In particular, he enjoyed mentoring students and junior professionals. In honoring his work, the Environmental Defense Fund has established a fellowship in Steve's name to support their Colorado River Internship Program. His love for youth is best stated in the plaque on Steve's home desk: 'Of all the names I've been called, I like Dad the best.' Steve was a nurturing father, always available to enjoy time with Nick, Paige and their friends. This included adventures in coaching soccer, endless travels with Paige to volleyball and gymnastic events, and supporting Nick's theatre or rock hounding events. The family traveled extensively - hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the world. That is, Steve was seen as inspiring by many young adults and was loved and well-respected by the people with whom he worked. He is a man that exemplified the Golden Rule in every aspect of his life. A Celebration of Steve's Wonderful Life is scheduled for 3 PM on January 6, 2017 at the Arizona Desert Botanical Gardens. All are welcome to attend. Donations may be made to: 1) Confidence Learning Center, which is a non-profit Camp serving special needs adults of which Steve's Brother Jeff is the Director. Make donations to Confidence Learning Center, 1620 Mary Fawcett Memorial Drive, East Gull Lake, MN 56401. Phone 218-828-2344 or 2) As both a botanist and a water manager, Steve loved the Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases the beauty and the value of smart desert choices. Donate at dbg.org/tributes or 1201 N Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ 85008. Phone 480-941-3517 or 3) The Steve Olson EDF Fellowship. Contact Kevin Moran @ [email protected].