"I think of Steve often. In 2012-2013 we worked with every GM brand manager for every division. Probably 100 individuals. Creating product launch and competitive comparison training materials. ~ John Rusche "
In loving memory of
Steven Philip Kimball
December 30, 1951 - January 28, 2021
Steven P. Kimball passed away from leukemia Thursday, January 28, 2021, at the age of 69. He is survived by his children, Benjamin Kimball (Stephanie Zuercher) and Katherine Flickinger (Benjamin Flickinger), and his grandchild.
Steve was born in Whittier, California, and grew up in small communities on the central coast. As a child, he worked at the local newspaper as a writer, photographer, and typesetter, which laid the foundation for the rest of his professional life. He graduated high school in Calgary, Alberta. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, completing the nuclear power program and serving in a ship's engine room during the Vietnam war. Subsequently he attended California Polytechnic University at San Louis Obispo where he graduated with with a degree in journalism while working as a firefighter.
His career was often driven by his passion for engines. He worked as a writer and editor for CycleWorld, Road & Track, and Fancy Publications. He subsequently moved to Michigan and worked as a contractor for various car companies through MDI Creative, Sandy Corp., and GP Strategies. His final working years were based out of Shanghai. Steve travelled Europe and Asia extensively for his professional life. However, his retirement to Iowa did not end his travel. Last year at this time he was motorcycling up mountains in the Philippines. The previous years included trips to Nepal, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Steve had a wide variety of hobbies and interests. He loved all forms of racing-- particularly sailboats and motorcycles. He raced yachts out of the Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit. He won the Craig Vetter Fuel Economy challenge on a Honda SuperCub. He enjoyed his private pilot's license and had difficulty turning down a ride in an ultralight. In his later years, he picked up squash, hiking, attempted to learn Mandarin, and became competent at the waltz (to the disbelief of many). He was a member of the Engineers Club and three ballroom dance groups. He was an energetic grandfather who delighted in chasing his grandchild.
In his final weeks, Steve expressed that he had a wonderful life and his only regret was his inability to see many of his friends one more time. He valued the wonderful people who had become family in China, Iowa, Michigan, and around the globe.
No funeral or memorial service is immediately planned. The family will notify loved ones in the future when a memorial is scheduled.