Julia Steinbach

Julie Steinbach, age 53, fought her final valiant battle with pancreatic cancer in her family home on January. She was surrounded by her family consisting of her loving mother, Karen Steinbach, her devoted soul mate and partner, Chris Steinmetz and his daughter, Emmiley. Jax and Abby, her faithful Gordon Setters, were present as well. Julie was born February 7, 1963 to Karen and Allen Steinbach in Yuma, AZ. She resided in Yuma for nearly two years until the family transferred to Willows, CA. She attended Glenn county schools from K through 12. After graduation, she joined her father and grandparents back in Yuma and began her lifelong love of working in the food, beverage and travel industries. Later, she returned to CA to attend American River College, Sacramento, to earn certification as a recreation therapist. Shortly thereafter, she attended Mueller College, in San Diego, to train as a Massage Therapist. Friends encourage her to venture to West Yellowstone, MT where she worked in food and beverage. She began to build her massage therapy practice and open-operate Phoenix Rising, a health food store. Eventually, she created High Altitude Catering Company and provided many elegant meals for weddings, family reunions, Holliday parties, etc. She also joined with the Madison Crossing Lounge where she and her kitchen staff developed delectable menus and meals. Lastly her dream of opening her own restaurant, “Huckleberry Annes” joined her other business ventures. Julie was also known for generously giving of herself and time to volunteer for many community projects and activities over the twenty years she lived and thrived in West Yellowstone. Shortly after being diagnosed with cancer she created the Yellowstone Foundation. This fulfilled her desire to leave a perpetual legacy behind for the residents of the community which had welcomed and supported her. Her foundation was designed to provide gas vouchers for families experiencing tremendous medical expenses due to a catastrophic illness of a family member. A “CELEBRATION OF LIFE” Memorial Service will be held at the West Yellowstone Community Protestant Church on Saturday, January 28th at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that contributions may be made to Julie’s foundation: West Yellowstone Wellness Foundation, P.O. Box 1256, West Yellowstone, MT, 59758; or you may wish to donate to your favorite charity in her name.