Over our lengthy careers, we were lucky to have known Steve Nemore. We count him as one of the all-time finest of many top-quality guys we got to jump with. Steve’s attitude about smokejumping was the same as his approach to life in general- get the work done without much fanfare, make things better for those around you, and characteristically be a positive force.

But Steve’s greatest attribute was his leadership style. He didn’t have much use for ego. He didn’t really give it a lot of deep thought; he just looked at leadership as something that should not be complicated. Organize whatever task is currently facing you and do it with high quality and good humor. In our humble opinion, Steve was the single best example of how to rise up through an organization without changing your basic character. Whatever the issue, Steve consistently made his decisions remaining loyal to the core values of smokejumping. He, at times, did this even if it put his own career in jeopardy. He was and still is a truly excellent human being. We feel lucky to know him.

- Rod Dow and Murry Taylor, Alaska Smokejumpers

Our Dad has taught us courage, and courage of character. He’s showed us how to laugh, most especially at ourselves. His lessons were modest, consistent and simple, just like who he is: a loving, affable guy who wants to do a good job and have good time doing it. We, his daughters, are proud to walk through life with his last name, knowing what it means to those he worked with. Dad is still working hard to show us his good humor as this disease steals him away from us.

- Stephanie and Emily Nemore

I’m Elizabeth Nemore. I have been a part of Steve Nemore’s life for 20 years. I have been his wife for 15 years and now, I have become his caregiver.

Steve is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease; and he has been struggling with dementia symptoms for the past 10 years. We have managed and made changes to keep life fulfilling, but his health has been in a steady decline and now he needs more care than I can provide. Recently we hired in-home health aides to assist 20 hours a week. As we only have enough money to cover this for six months, I decided to plan for the future and look at ways to help fund Steve’s “ladies”.

Over the past year I have put a lot of research into care options for Steve, such as long-term nursing and memory care and funding through Medicaid and Veterans Benefits. Many friends, family, and jumper bros have been helpful in this process, providing resources and advice. The best option for now is Steve living at home with assistance. The money from this fundraiser is to help pay for the in-home health aides.

The Steve I know was always ready to jump in the truck and take off to assist someone in need. Many times, he’d tell me to donate money for a cause, or he’d empty his wallet to help someone. He is a big, kind, generous heart.

So, if anyone feels the desire to throw some money in the cookie jar to help pay for Steve’s nurses, we would be thankful. Of course, we also appreciate the other things you do such as the calls, texts, emails, suggestions of ways to find help and offers to sit with Steve.

With gratitude,

Elizabeth Nemore