Steven James Hale's Obituary
Steven James Hale of Muskegon, Michigan, passed away on April 15, 2026.
He was born on January 21, 1953, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Bonnie Hale (neé Bunnell) and Stanley Hale. Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Bonnie and Stanley Hale of Muskegon, MI, and his daughter, Jodi Arnold (neé Hale) of Jacksonville, Florida.
He is survived by his significant other of four years, Carol Strayer; his daughters, Amy (Peter) Cameron of Smyrna, Tennessee, and Patti (Jerry Petroff) Kirkey of Fort Worth, Texas, his brother Stanley (Judy) Hale of Avon Park, Fl, Sister Gloria (Gary) Wahr of Ruskin, FL; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Steven will be remembered not only for the impact he had on those around him, but also for his strength, faith, and perseverance. He served as pastor of the Muskegon Church of the Brethren for the past four years, where he was deeply loved by his congregation. During his time there, the church grew from five members to more than twenty, reflecting his dedication, leadership, and care for others. Before entering the pastorate, Steven had a rich and creative career in music. He served as a band director for many schools, worked as a music producer creating commercial jingles, and shared his passion through years of private instrument instruction. Most recently, he took great pride in teaching ukulele lessons at his church, even gifting his students their own ukuleles—an expression of his generosity and love of music.
At the time of his passing, he was a devoted member of Alcoholics Anonymous, proudly holding his ‘25 years of sobriety’ coin, a testament to his resilience and commitment.
A celebration of life for out-of-town friends and family will be held on May 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Muskegon Church of the Brethren., 1840 Catherine Ave. Muskegon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Muskegon Church of the Brethren. It was Steven’s wish that continued support of his church would help it grow and allow him, in spirit, to continue pouring into the congregation he loved so deeply.
Romans 14:10–12 (NIV)
“For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. It is written: ‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow before me; every tongue will acknowledge God.’ So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.”
Arrangements by Shoreline Memorial Services -- Muskegon Chapel -- (231)-722-5050
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