Steven “Steve” Thomas, 69

Steven “Steve” M. Thomas, 69, Valley Springs, passed away following his battle with cancer on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, surrounded by his family at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls.

Per Steve’s wishes, there will be no traditional funeral service. His life will instead be celebrated at a later date. Memorial contributions directed to: Lacey Bultje, 180 N. Napoleon Ave., Corsica, SD 57328.

Steve is survived by his special friend, Jan Hoff; his children, Aaron (Mandy) Merritt of Dalton Gardens, Idaho, Jim Merritt of Idaho Falls, Idaho, Derek (Ashley) Howard of Stickney, Shelby (Jordan) Johnson of Summerset, S.D., Lane (Dani) Thomas of Mitchell, and Lacey (Dustin) Bultje of Corsica. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan (Rebecca) and Allison Merritt, Aubrey Merritt, Cali and Brooke Howard, Mason, Wesley, and Camreigh Johnson, Payton and Carsyn Thomas, and Hailee, Mya, and Cora Bultje; siblings, Mike (Cheryl) Thomas of Parkston, Sheryl (Greg) Plamp of Mitchell, and Keith Thomas of Parkston; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, and his dog, Hootie.

For online condolences, visit heartlandfunerals.com.