Stephen Swaim Clinehens

Stephen Swaim Clinehens, 88, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, surrounded by his family. Steve's life reflected his love of learning and adventure. Everywhere life took him, he greeted the world with a one-of-a-kind sense of humor; a quality that his wife and daughters will always treasure.

Steve was born on November 24, 1937, in Indiana. He then moved West with his family when his father began work at Hanford. Steve graduated from Richland High School in 1956. At Washington State University, Steve earned a BA in Anthropology in 1960. Steve then served in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1965. Steve's patriotic spirit never dimmed. Later in life, he volunteered with the Civil Air Patrol.

After completing his service in the Air Force, Steve pursued his interest in homesteading. In the Gulf Islands of Canada, he and his young family built a cabin on a small island. The adventure continued in New Zealand where Steve farmed 400 acres. His daughter, Sabrina, has precious memories of herding sheep with her dad.

Later on in life, Steve's adventurous spirit took him to Anchorage, Alaska where he met his wife Martha and worked in marketing for healthcare providers and a classical music station. He married Martha in 1988 and several years later, they built a thriving healthcare staffing business. In retirement, Steve and Martha moved to Walla Walla where he enjoyed his time with his family. He spent many hours working in his garden and found fulfillment in sharing fresh produce with family, friends and charities.

Steve is preceded in death by his infant daughter, Delilah Kathleen; the mother of his daughters, Geneva Trelle; his father, J. Webster; his mother, Kathleen; his sister, Ann; and his infant granddaughter, Esta Trelle.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 628 Lincoln St, Walla Walla.