Stephen Minor

Stephen “Steve” Michael Minor

“Died tragically saving his family in a blimp accident.” - Steve

Steve was born May 1st, 1975 and died unexpectedly at home Sunday July 25th, 2021.

A graduate of West Virginia University, Steve double majored in Biology & Chemistry, completing his undergrad education Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa. He complete a fellowship in lipid research before choosing to attend dental school. Steve then graduated from WVU School of Dentistry, served a general practice residency at CAMC in Charleston, and began his lifelong journey of serving rural communities in West Virginia as a trusted and well-loved dentist. He was employed by Valley Health centers in Harts and Cedar Grove. Steve’s impact on the health of the community has been immeasurable.

While Steve’s work was an important part of his life, his many interests and love for his family were where he centered his passion. Steve was an avid hiker, fisherman, marathon runner, Bigfoot enthusiast, and Fantasy Football Champion (Kaitlin says “You’re welcome, Dad!”). When not outdoors, Steve could be found playing Fugazi & Jeff Buckley covers on his guitar, or wrestling with the family greyhound, Marshmallow. Steve had a kind heart and a quick wit. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Steve knows he could make a joke out of anything, a trait he shared with his brother, and one he made sure to pass on to his kids.

Steve was, above all, a dedicated and loving husband, father, son, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend. His immense love for his family was evident to all. Everyone who knew him is better for it. Steve is survived by his loving wife, Amie Minor of Charleston, WV; daughter Katlin Kouns of St. Louis, MO; stepchild Zach Nottingham of Charleston, WV; his parents Valerie and Millard Minor of Philippi, WV; grandmother Eloise Evans of Weirton, WV; brother and sister-in-law Eric and Tracy Minor of Morgantown, WV; niece and nephew Arden and Ben Minor of Morgantown, WV; and family dog, Marshmallow.

A celebration of life will be held at Ridenour Lake Pavilion in Nitro, WV, on Saturday, July 31, 2021.  Visitation will be 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. with services 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. All are welcome to celebrate the life of the man, the myth, the legend, Steve Minor. The family firmly requests that all attendees be vaccinated for COVID-19, or wear face masks, as is an appropriate safety precaution.

A Gathering to Honor Steve in Barbour County will be held in the Fellowship Hall of Crim United Methodist Church on Saturday, August 14, 2021 from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Up-to-date COVID restrictions will be followed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to honor Steve’s memory make a charitable contribution to Rainbow Pride of WV at P.O. Box 2624, Charleston, WV 25329, the Kanawha-Charleston Humane Association at 1248 Greenbrier St., Charleston, WV 25311, or the Animal Friends of Barbour County, 320 Valley Bend Road, Belington, WV 26250. These organizations were personally significant to Steve, who was an active ally for the LGBTQ+ community and a passionate animal-welfare advocate.

We love you. Every day. Forever.

This announcement is a courtesy of the Kittle Family Funeral Home, Philippi WV