Ralph Steven Hampton

Ralph Steven Hampton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born on October 8, 1942, in Shelley, Idaho, at the Eaton Maternity Home, Steve was the sixth of seven children born to Ralph and Dorothy (Cox) Hampton.

Steve’s early years were spent farming and ranching, often riding his horse with his loyal dog by his side. His family moved to Star Valley, Wyoming, during his childhood before settling in Goshen and later moving the actual house to Jameston, Idaho. He graduated from Shelley High School in 1961, participating in track and basketball.

At just 16, Steve met the love of his life and partner in crime, Linda Ruth Croft, in Idaho Falls. They married on March 1, 1963, and built a life together in Shelley, raising two sons, Brett and Tyler. Steve was a devoted family man and a passionate outdoorsman who found joy in hunting, fishing, and later boating on Idaho’s lakes.

For 30 years, Steve and Linda bowled in leagues at Bowl-ero, sharing laughter and camaraderie. Professionally, Steve was a skilled welder at Idaho Steel Products for 34 years, where he led men and built custom equipment. In 1998, he retired and founded L & S Metal Products with his sons, specializing in food processing equipment.

Steve’s artistic spirit shone through with his love for western art. He created sculptures that captured the essence of the American West, including his masterpiece—a life-sized buffalo with a Native American and horse in pursuit. His passion for music was equally strong; he was known for his karaoke performances, channeling the voices of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Dorothy; siblings Raymand, Lemar, Levi, and Margene; and his beloved sons, Brett and Tyler. He is survived by his wife Linda; brothers Morrell (Judy) Hampton and Doug (Donna) Hampton; daughters-in-law Kamala Hampton and Laura Hampton; five grandchildren Jackson (Destiny) Hampton, BaiLee (Orrin) Christensen, Chloe Hampton (Christopher Jones), Rainey Hampton, Stephanie Rowbury (Aaron Balster); and twelve great-grandchildren Kimber Hampton, CJ Rowbury, Anya Hampton, Ella Maxwell, Jessie Hampton, Ty Christensen, Wyatt Hampton, Brent Christensen, HaizLee Christensen, Melody Christensen, Parker Maxwell, Phillip Christensen .

The Hampton family extends heartfelt gratitude to Oakstone Hospice, especially nurses and CNAs Mattie, Brittney, and Nya, for their compassionate care.

In accordance with Steve’s wishes, no public services will be held. A private graveside service will be arranged at a later date.

Steve’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the art he created, and the love he shared.

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