Steven M. TownsendShelby, NCSteven M. Townsend, 56, formerly of York, passed away on Sunday, June 5 at his home in Shelby, N.C. He was born on October 12, 1959, in York. He was the son of the late Wallace T. and F. Dolores (Hendricks) Townsend.Steve graduated from West York High School in 1977 and went on to help operate the family's two "Dairy Queen" stores on West Market Street and South Queen Street in York. Steve then completed his Carpenter Apprentice Program through the York County Builder's Association and worked for a number of local contractors, including a long tenure with C. F. Deller & Sons of Dallastown. Steve then relocated to Selinsgrove, assisting in the family's real estate company, "Townsend Crossing." Upon his father's death, Steve stepped up as President and oversaw the development of a townhouse community on Lori Lane in Selinsgrove. He also was the caretaker of his beloved mother during the final years of her life. Steve then left Pennsylvania and spent several years in Myrtle Beach, S.C. It was there that he founded a website business, "Recycled America," that showcased his love of great "finds" while antiquing, attending yard sales and estate auctions. Steve then found his paradise in Shelby, N.C. He raised chickens, pigs, rabbits and other livestock. He planted crops and enjoyed their bounty. Steve was a self-proclaimed naturalist, believing that nature provided everything that was necessary for a healthy existence.Steve was a prolific writer, inquisitive about the world around him and advocating for a better way of life through his writings. Steve was creative and always thought "outside the box." He was gifted with his hands and took pride in the craftsmanship that went into his innovative woodworking designs. Steve was always seeking the invention that no one had yet discovered. Steve enjoyed hunting and was skilled with a bow and arrow. He loved fishing, crabbing and clamming. He loved the solace of going fishing in his small boat, even if he came home without a bite. He loved camping and had lifelong friends who tell fond stories of their many adventures. Steve leaves behind his beloved son, Steven "Stevie" M. Townsend, Jr., age 20, who was raised by his loving and devoted father, and Stevie's mother, Diana Townsend of N. Willow Street, PA. He is survived by a sister, Debra K. (Townsend) Daniels and brother-in-law, John Daniels; his niece, Kelly Perry of Baltimore, Md.; and his late nephew, Joseph "Joey" Daniels of York. He also leaves behind brothers, Edward W. Townsend of Dover and his son, Tyler of Mt. Joy, and Scott A. Townsend of York and his son, Kyle of Las Vegas, Nev. He also will be missed by his great niece, McKennah Navarro, Baltimore, Md. and great nephew, PFC Nikolas Navarro, Ft. Riley, Kan. Cleveland Funeral Service and Crematory are handling arrangements and the family has planned a "Celebration of Life" gathering on Sunday, June 26 at 3 p.m. at 148 Sylvan Drive in York. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: "The Steven M. Townsend, Jr. Education Fund," c/o Trustee, Debra K. Daniels, 148 Sylvan Drive, York, PA 17402.