A live stream of Bill’s service can be watched by clicking the following link:
William “Bill” Craig Stevens, age 65, passed away on the morning of July 13, 2025, while out tending to his cattle on the forest.
Bill was born in Sheridan, Wyoming on June 12, 1960, to Marcus and Nancy Stevens. He was their first born and the start of the fifth generation on the Circle Bar Ranch.
Bill’s childhood included many adventures as one would expect living on a ranch. From swimming in Otter Creek to climbing the surrounding hills, Bill was always up to something. Collecting various wild animals as pets, going camping, riding his bicycle to town (Sheridan – 67 miles away), and playing in The Fort.
His education started at the one room schoolhouse on Otter Creek for the first couple of years and finishing up with 8th grade at Ashland Public School. Bill then attended and graduated from Tongue River High School in 1979. After High School, Bill traveled to Laramie, Wyoming to attend WyoTech, graduating with certificates in automotive and diesel technologies.
In the summer of 1981, Bill first met Janice (Jan) Lori Kyllo as she worked at the OW Ranch outside of Sheridan, WY. As fate would have it, Bill had accepted a flying job in Laramie as Jan was starting her freshman year at the University of Wyoming in Laramie that fall. Bill and Jan dated until she graduated in the spring of 1985. They married June 1, 1985, and celebrated their 40th Anniversary in 2025.
Bill and Jan welcomed Heather Anne on July 12, 1988, during the week of the Sheridan WYO Rodeo, amidst a summer of numerous fires. Jennifer Ellen came two years later on October 9, 1990 while Bill was working on a water pipeline. Finally, Megan Kay arrived on August 27, 1994. Bill loved his girls and never felt outnumbered by the female presence in the house. He instilled in them the love for the ranch, family history, hunting, cooking, and being adventurous.
Bill’s love for flying started at an early age flying with his dad, Marc. Soloing at 15 and receiving his pilot’s license at age 16. While attending WyoTech he continued his piloting education as well, gathering various certifications from Commercial to Instructor. Bill finished out his certificates as a Multi-Engine Instrument Flight Instructor. In 1981, Bill took a job with Laramie Aviation as a flight instructor and charter pilot. He worked there until he moved back to the ranch in 1983. Bill continued to fly at the ranch, from looking for cattle on the forest and hunting coyotes in the winter, to taking friends and family up for a joy ride and flying to town for parts, Bill was always at home in the air. Bill’s pride and joy was the yellow and black NorthStar plane, in which he logged many hours building and even more flying.
Hunting was always a big part of Bill’s life. From the local game of mule and whitetail deer, antelope, and elk, Bill usually drew a tag. While Bill enjoyed hunting himself, he really loved taking new hunters out to show them the ropes. Later in life, Bill found a love for Africa and hunting there. In the spring of 2025, he convinced Jan to travel with him to Africa, hoping that she would share the love for it that he had. It didn’t take much convincing after Jan shot three for three.
Bill’s love for competition was evident in the many sports that he participated in. He participated in wrestling and football while attending High School. He especially enjoyed coaching little kids in wrestling, teaching them their first move; to throw their hands up in the air, yell, and run onto the mat at the other competitor, thereby forcing them off the mat. He was always studying the local Broadus High School calendar to see when the next football, basketball, or wrestling meet was going to be held so that he could attend. In the mid 1990’s, Bill found the sport of Endurance Riding with his wife. He participated in many one-day rides from ranging from 50 to 100 miles. He furthered his endurance experience by offering to help the US Endurance Team when they traveled overseas for various World Championships. His travels included Canada, the United Arab Emirates, France, Italy, Spain, Costa Rica, and New Zealand. In these travels he made countless friends, with many of them traveling to the ranch to visit.
The ranch was always in the forefront of Bill’s mind. He was so proud to share his love of this way of life with his family and friends. He impressed upon the girls the importance of loving the land; treating it with care so that it can provide for the coming generations. He loved the history of his family in ranching and being the Papa of the 7th generation here on Otter Creek.
Bill served on several local boards including the Powder River Conservation District and the Airport Board in Broadus. He enjoyed being involved in the decision making for the betterment of the natural resources and the longevity of ranching in Southeastern Montana. He was also a very strong fundraising advocate for the Broadus Volunteer Fire Department.
Bill’s family would like to thank our family and friends for their outpouring of support through this difficult time. Bill always felt that there were never any strangers in the world, only people he hadn’t befriended yet.
Bill is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jan; Daughter Heather Herman (John) of Sonnette, Montana; Daughter Jennifer Clairmont (Chet) of New Bern, North Carolina; Daughter Megan Stevens of Sheridan, Wyoming; Grandchildren Tyler, Cody, and Kaylee Herman and Milo Clairmont. Parents Marcus and Nancy Stevens; Sisters Suzanne Notti (Jae) and Cynthia Gratwohl (Hal); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents John and Dorothy Stevens, grandparents Russell and Mary Price, and his niece Rebecca Notti.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to the Bill Stevens Memorial Scholarship Fund, which will be dedicated to furthering the education of students wishing to go to trade schools.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday July 20, 2025
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Hoem
101 Wilson St
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday July 21, 2025
Faith Bible Church
102 E Morris St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Luncheon
Following the Funeral Service
Monday July 21, 2025
VFW Hall
401 Park Ave
Broadus, Montana 59301
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday July 20, 2025
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Hoem
101 Wilson St
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
10:00 a.m.
Monday July 21, 2025
Faith Bible Church
102 E Morris St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Luncheon
Following the Funeral Service
Monday July 21, 2025
VFW Hall
401 Park Ave
Broadus, Montana 59301
Share
Laura Lee and Vic Ullrich says
I am heartbroken for you all at this sad news! There are no words that I can offer to you to portray my sympathy. He was such a good man, taken way too soon. May Our Loving God cradle yo in his arms and carry you through the coming days and weeks. This is definitely a one set of footprints in the sand time. I am here if you need anything at all.Hugs and prayers for you all.
Darolyn Butler says
Oh Jan, and family,
this was so shocking to hear. My heart goes out to you during this time as he was one of the grandest men I had ever met. Jovial and kind were special traits of his. When I see his face in my mind, I see a big warm rosie smile. My heart and thoughts are with you during this time.
Love to all Darolyn
Bo Roggen says
Dear family,
I will NEVER forget the beautiful times I got to spend with you. Bill let me fly the Cessna, he tought me how to drive the cattle and he even saved my life when I almost got bit by a rattlesnake. I will never forget how he was laughing so hard because I was afraid of spiders, but stopped laughing when he saw it was a black widow. I can continue with these stories. Beautiful stories. He will always be in my heart.
Susan Kasemeyer says
Many hugs to you, Jan, and to the girls
Jim and Kathy Bowers says
Jan and family, Jim and I were so sad to hear of Bill’s passing. He was such a wonderful person, and we always enjoyed our conversations with him. Jim also enjoyed his time with Bill at the Conservation District meetings and flying lessons. Our hearts break for you all! May God bless you with his comfort and loving arms in this time of grief.
Bert and Helen Woods says
To the Stevens Family,
Words can’t express the broken heart that we feel for the loss of Bill.. Such a great man, boss, and above all a great friend. May the memories give everyone comfort and may God comfort you in the days to come. You have our prayers and love.
Rachel Bohm says
No better man, husband, father, papa and friend ever.
Bill you will be forever remembered but so sadly missed.
Vicki Holzer says
I am heartbroken. One of the best men I have ever known is gone. His warm inviting presence at Fort Howes was always a highlight. If there was a problem, Bill always solved it with no drama or fuss. His love of Jan and his wonderful girls was on display at all times. He was a man’s man who loved God, his country, his family and the land. My heart is broken for his lovely family. His endurance family mourns his loss. Rest in Peace Bill. You gave the gift of the West to so many riders.
Jaci Phillips says
Jan and family we are so sorry for your loss! You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
John Schneider & Roxanne Batt says
Oh Jan and Family, Rox and I were so saddened to learn about Bill. We have such wonderful memories of flying up to Montana every year and taking part in your Ft. Howes Endurance rides along with Dave and Natalie. Bill’s (and your) warm hearts and smiles greeting us each time we visited will ALWAYS be remembered. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers and hope that your loving family and wonderful memories will support you through this difficult time. Bill was a rare gem.
Debbie Weyer says
Jan & girls, I am so sorry to hear this. I do know how you all are feeling. A friend sent this to me, and I hope it helps you…. DEATH, leaves a heartache no one can heal, LOVE, leaves a memory no one can steal.
May God wrap his loving arms around you at thus difficult time….
Sandy Williams says
Bud and I are so sorry for your loss!! Thinking of you all!!
Claudia J Harper says
Jan. I’m lost for words. My thoughts are with you and your family. Bill was so kind and non judgemental an amazing human being.
Kathleen Henkel says
Jan – nothing said will soothe you and your family but please know I send many prayers and will keep all of you in my thoughts. Take good care of each other. You are a strong and amazing family.
Les & Jane Thompson. says
Thinking of you all in this Oh so sad time. May our Lord bring comfort to you all.
Robert and Melisa Ribley says
Bill had a heart and smile as big as the Montana sky. The world will miss him.
Tom Hutchinson says
Jan and girls, I am so sad to learn of Bill’s passing. We will grieve his passing, but we will more remember how good he was with you all and the ranch, and all of the endurance riders that invaded his and your lives evrry year for almost 30 years.
Giulia Orth says
Dear Jan, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Sending so much love your way. Giulia
John Pachl says
My sincere condolences.
Robbie says
Me and my wife Janice have yall in our prayer. Bill was one of the good ones.
Craig and Dana O'Gorman says
It is a tragedy to lose someone of Bill’s intelligence and endless abilities from our community. I have worked for the Stevens Ranch for over 35 years. He was a dream to work for; he was predator savvy and worked with you. “What can I help you do, to keep my calves alive?” Bill was a very skilled pilot, in cases where he flew with his plane, spotting coyotes, with us up in the chopper. He had an unending zest for life, an ability to master so many skills, a pit-master and excellent cook. Bill took pride in ranch improvements to cut labor and make ranching easier. He enjoyed his new toys and mastered a professional use of them. The scope of his interest was boundless. Like Ronald Reagan, he never said ill of anybody. He was a very nice, admirable person, a very good man and good family man. A True Montana, Admirable Rancher. He will be greatly missed.
Dennis Seymore,DVM says
Endurance family lost a great person , always ready to help solve any problems or to get everyone taken care of. I will never forget our fishing trilp together in Costa Rica with Rocio’s dad trying to get us to hook an alligator swimming in the river next to us.
Bobbi Walker says
I’m so sorry for you and you family’s loss Jan. Sending strength to get you though this.
Steve Krempasky says
May God wrap his loving arms around your family. “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
Becky Pearman says
Jan and Family, I am so sorry for your loss of Bill. I’ll always remember how welcoming he was that first time I came to Circle Bar to photograph Ft Howes ride. He took me up in the Cessna and showed me around thr ranch. So many wonderful memories of the times I got to visit. He was a good good man…you are in my thoughts and prayers
Sam and Dan Georgen says
Jan, we want you to know how sorry we are to hear about Bill’s passing. Please know you are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Larry Pasley, Carlisle Arkansas says
I taught him in elementary school and then caught up with him later as a pilot. Was so sad to hear of his passing. The best to you Jan.
Nick Kohut says
Deepest sympathies from Ranelle and I. We will always cherish the time we spent with Bill. Wonderful memories from shared meals, traveling around the ranch together, and wide ranging conversations. Prayers for the entire family.
Gwen Hall says
My heart breaks for you and your family at this difficult time. While I have no words to assuage the loss I can only hope you can be comforted by the knowledge that Bill was a good, kind soul that brought so much joy to so many that were blessed to meet him.
Robin and Mary-Anne Dorchester says
Bill was always so generous with his time when we came to the Ft. Howes rides. Good stories we still tell years later.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Drin Becker says
Jan and family ,
Please know my thoughts are with you during this time.
Bill was a good one , his smiling face is what i will remember.
Kelly J. Hamilton says
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary Smith-Roig says
I’m so sorry for your loss I’ll be praying. 🙏♥️
Dave and Natalie Schneider says
Jan and Family,
Natalie and I were stunned and saddened to hear about Bill’s passing. We were at Ft. Howes frequently and were always met with a smile and laugh from Bill. We will never forget Bill and his backhoe making the best pig roasts ever. Jan, you and the rest of your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Christoph Schork says
Bill was one of the kindest man on earth. Always generous and helpful. Loved by everyone in the endurance community and horse world. He will be forever in our memory and heart. Love, hugs and sympathy to the Stevens family, we are with you in your sorrow and pain.
Lillian Durham says
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Aletta & Randy Shannon says
Thinking of you all and heartfelt sympathy.
Nick & Mona McFerran says
Bill was a spectacular Man. The entire Family are the most wonderful people. We consider them Our Family. What a devastating time for the entire family. Our thoughts and Prayers on consistently with all of you.
Dinah nd Steve Rojek says
Dear Jan,
We are stunned and sorrowful. You are in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.
Much love to all of you,
Dinah and Steve Rojek
Norm and Julie Samuelson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Our deepest sympathies to all of your families.
Norm and Julie Samuelson says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Our deepest sympathies.
Shawn and Wendy Richards says
Sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers to the family.
Kevin Watt says
Bill was a great guy. Of have fond memories of the class reunion we attended when Bear Lodge assigned your room to us and thought we had broken into the room. We spent a good deal of time talking together. He will be missed.
Jack Weber says
So very sorry for your loss. The world has lost an outstanding man who was loved and respected by all.
Lori Shifflett says
So sorry to hear of your loss! Bill was taken way too young! Such a great guy and such a blessing to the endurance community for sure! He made us feel so at home and welcome on your ranch. Saying prayers for the whole family! 💗
Janet Rice says
So very sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a great guy. Prayers for Jan and rest of family. My son lived up in that area for awhile. I know he had some great times with Bill.❤️❤️🙏🙏
Janet Rice says
So sorry to hear of Bills passing. He was loved so much by his neighbors and anyone he met. My son Rick was a neighbor for z long time. He said he was one of the best.
Jim Adams says
We have camped at the bottom of Bridge Coulée, next to the ranch for many years hunting elk. Bill was always pleasant. His love for the ranch and his way of life was very evident. Will miss seeing him fly over.
Maribel Paulson and Earle Baxter says
We know how much you will miss him. I also know there are many good memories to comfort you. You will find the balance. Much love from Earle and Maribel
Deanna Spiker says
The world is a whole lot dimmer without his smile. He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to have known his friendship and I count myself privileged to be one of them. Your family is always in my thoughts but more so at this difficult time. May all your best memories and our best memories comfort you.
Nicole Wertz says
So sorry for the sudden loss of this wonderful man. You all opened your ranch to the endurance community for so many years creating an iconic lovely community event. Bill was always there supporting and bbqing and showing people around in his plane. He always had a smile on his face and I am sad we never took him up on his offers to hunt elk. He will be missed by many. My heart goes out to your family and all of his close friends. He will be flying high watching from above.
Kristen & Kent Lacy says
Jan and girls, Kent and I send our deepest condolences. So many fond memories of Bill, always smiling and so much fun. We hope that your love and strength together, will help get you through this most difficult time.
Peggy Clark says
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Bill was a wonderful man and everyone who knew him is better for it.
Tim and Peggy Clark
Michael and MK Carraway
Crockett Dumas says
Many pleasant memories riding on the old Ranch with the old Fort! Catering to us Riders in a most hospitable way….. a great time! Surely a Treasure there to carry on! Myself, I just completed a Conservation Easement on The Outlaw Trail Rch where it can never be sold or subdivided. Fortunately y’all have a fine family to carry on. Bill will always be appreciated by everyone and be remembered as will the family and The Local Old Timers that joined us.
Green Pastures and Shady Resting Places,
Terry Banister & Crockett Dumas
Mike and Connie Caudill says
Bill was one of a kind. He will be missed by all. He could entice anyone to go help brand calves and then take them up in his plane looking for elk. We have wonderful memories from our times together. Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with Jan and Bill’s family.
Claude and Cheri Clark says
So sorry to hear of your loss. We have fond memories of our days spent at Fort Howes. He will surely be missed, a friend indeed. As the future unfolds you will all be in our prayers. May you be blessed with peace from the source of all peace through the Love of Our Savior, Jesus Christ. The memories are numerous and the fond thoughts unending. It was an Honor to have known Bill. He will never be forgotten!
With Sympathy and deepest Compassion we will be remembering all of his family in this time of sorrow.
Kat Irvine says
With a kind word and a smile, Bill always made you feel like family
Stephanie Hilscher says
The horrible news reached me at the beginning of this week.
It really touched me and I feel so sorry for your loss!
I am happy to know Bill, eaven if it was not for a very long time. He made me feel so wellcome on your ranch in June 2009, when I got over from Oregon (from Ron and Carols place) worked some cattle with him and you all.
We went fishing, drove to the cinema and for groceries lot of miles away ;),
marking the trails for the upcomming endurance race…
He also took me on a flight over the land in his little plane.
I will never forget the great time I had with you guys.
He was so gentle, warm hearted and always in a good mood at any time of the day.
My deeply condolances and warm greetings from Austria
Keith Stroud & Bill Santoni says
Bill Santoni and I were so sorry to hear of the family’s loss. We are customers of Jennifer at Nick’s gun shop in Morehead City, NC. Our prayers and sympathy go out to all and may God hold you close o Himsef and ease your grief during this time.