Steven "Steve" Paul Eason

Chef Steven “Steve” Paul Eason, 70, passed away on February 11, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington.  

Born on May 1, 1954, in Seattle, Washington, Steve’s life was shaped by his passion for food, the outdoors, and his dedication to his craft. His culinary journey began in the 1970s at Vail Resort, where he worked for Vail Food Services and at Vail Manor alongside Hans Wasmeier. During this time, he had the honor of serving Thanksgiving dinner to President Gerald Ford and his family. In the summer of 1976, he refined his skills at a five-star Michelin restaurant in Martha’s Vineyard with Hans.  

Over the decades, Steve became a well-respected chef in the Pacific Northwest. In 1985, he worked at Grazi’s along Tacoma’s waterfront before launching his own catering business out of the basement of the Gourmet Pantry in 1986. He later served as Executive Chef at the Tacoma Landmark Convention Center, Evergreen Casino in Fife, and Weyerhaeuser corporate offices. He also led culinary operations at the Officers’ Club at McChord Air Force Base and reworked the menu as Executive Chef at Lakewood Grill before transitioning into sales with Schreiber Spice Distribution and US Foods.  

In 2007 and 2008, Steve played a key role in opening Snoqualmie Casino, overseeing ten restaurants ranging from buffet-style dining to fine cuisine. He later served as Executive Chef at Fircrest Golf & Country Club and was involved with C&L Catering and Distribution. In 2010, he founded Ice Works, an ice carving business that combined his love for food artistry with sculpting. Competing alongside Roger Knapp and other chef instructors, he placed tenth in the World Ice Carving Championship in Fairbanks, Alaska. He also shared his expertise as a guest lecturer at Bates Technical College. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he launched Bloom Bowl to provide ice bowls for events—another testament to his creativity and resilience.  

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve found joy in fishing, camping, skiing, mushroom picking, and exploring the Pacific Northwest. His adventurous spirit and generosity left a lasting impact on those who knew him.  Steve also applied his passion for helping others by hosting hundreds of international students through the Homestay Program at Pierce College providing them a place to call home - a refuge for students and their friends or anyone who needed a warm, welcoming space.

Steve is survived by his daughter Jennifer Long (Michael); sister Catherine Eason (Andre L’Heureux); brothers Donald Eason (Sharon) and Michael Eason; nephew Andrew Eason (Susan); nieces Nicole Eason and Kristin Holt (Timothy); grandchildren Madison, Grayson and Allison; as well as many friends and colleagues who cherished him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo Watt Eason. and Catherine Ann Eason and partner Debra Whitney.

A private celebration of life for family and friends will be held on March 30, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Smolko Family Home in Lakebay, Washington.

Steve’s legacy lives on through the meals he created, the knowledge he shared, and the memories he made with those who knew him best. May his passion for life continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.