Jim Steinback

James “Jim” Steinback, 59, of Artesia, NM, took his last breath on the morning of February 19th, 2020, surrounded by his family at his home full of love, after losing a hard fought battle with cancer.

Jim was born in Denver, Colorado on May 6th, 1960 to Thomas Steinback and Elizabeth McGuire. On September 26th, 1981, he married Tana Stewart and created a lifetime of memories that will soon not be forgotten. If the dictionary defined words with photographs of the person who most accurately fits the description, you would find Jim’s picture beside integrity: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. From the beginning of his diagnosis, the one and only thing he focused on was making sure his family was taken care of after he was gone.

The variety of adventures Jim lived throughout his life is truly reflective of the amazing man he was. From living in Alaska in his younger years and helping his uncle build a cabin, to racing motocross, to fishing bass professionally, he never missed the chance to do something cool. He was ever the encourager and spent countless hours coaching his kiddos, whether it was his niece, nephew, daughter, grandson, or the next door neighbor’s son, in whatever they chose to pursue. He would not turn down the opportunity to help someone he loved succeed. He was the happiest outdoors with a rifle or a bow, on the trail of some animal, regardless if he was hunting for himself or guiding someone else. He spoke the most about his hunts with his daughters and grandkids and he loved to show anyone pictures. Tana affectionately referred to him as a mountain goat for a reason, and isn’t ashamed to tell you she wasn’t following him up the Floridas.

He was the best Daddy, incredibly proud grandfather, loving husband, faithful son, big brother, steadfast uncle, and friend to all who needed him. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Steinback and his brother, David. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Steinback of Lake Arthur, wife Tana of their home, daughters Shasta Scroggin and husband, Tyler of New Braunfels, TX, and Erin Steinback of Artesia. Grandchildren Aubrey Chavarria, Bradyn Partlow, Lincoln Scroggin, Jaxton Wolf, and Baby Logan Scroggin coming in July. Brother Marvin Steinback and wife, Ellen of Louisiana, sisters Cindi Buck and husband Randy of Lake Arthur and Christy Weiler and husband Phil of Cottonwood. And numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, February 22nd, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Artesia. Camo attire is welcomed for those who want to honor Jim since he wasn’t one to dress up and lived for hunting.