Samuel Stephen Burdine, lovingly known as “Steve,” age 75, of Wyoming, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, following a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma.
Steve was born on February 17, 1949, in Decatur, Illinois, to Samuel and Dorothy (Van Tries) Burdine Jr. A proud graduate of MacArthur High School’s Class of 1967, Steve began a remarkable career in radio immediately after high school. His voice carried across the airwaves in Illinois, Arizona, Florida, Colorado, and North Dakota. here he announced news, sports, and music with passion and professionalism.
A true highlight of his career was landing his dream job as a sportscaster for KXMB TV in Bismarck. There, Steve combined his love of sports with his gift for storytelling, captivating viewers with his wit and knowledge. Meeting many famous celebrities and sports personalities along the way, including Johnny Cash and many others.
During his time at KXMB, he also met the love of his life, Rebecca “Becky” Beckmann, who worked alongside him at the station. Their connection flourished, and they were united in marriage on December 11, 1981, after moving to Minnesota.
Steve’s professional journey took a new turn when he took courses at Control Data and trained as an electronic technician. He worked as a Field Service Technician at Retail Data Systems with dedication and skill until his retirement in 2013.
Steve and Becky also shared a love for animals and partnered in running Rising Sun Farms, where they raised prized Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Bengal cats. While Steve adored all dogs, his Border Collies and Australian Shepherds held a special place in his heart.
Steve’s passions extended far beyond his career and animals. He was an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular love for baseball. Known for his deep knowledge of statistics, he rarely missed the chance to watch a game. His love of U.S. history, especially the Civil War, reflected his intellectual curiosity and appreciation for the past.
Those who knew Steve remember him as a charming and intelligent man with a quick wit and a kind heart. He brought joy to others with his humor and warmth, and his deep love for his family and friends was evident in all that he did.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Dorothy; his brother, Gail Dean Lewis; and his sisters-in-law, Judi Lewis and Bonnie Anzur.
He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 43 years, Rebecca “Becky” Burdine; his son, Kyle (Tanya Roberts) Burdine; his grandsons, Brock (Sarah) Burdine, Ryder Burdine, and Cole Burdine; his sister, Judi Burdine; and many other cherished family members and friends.
Steve’s life was a testament to love, laughter, and resilience. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.
In accordance with his wishes, a private family service will be held. In Lieu of flowers to family asks for donations to be made in Steve’s honor to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation https://give.themmrf.org/steveburdine
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