Honoring Steve Finamore: Help His Family Continue His Legacy

Steve Finamore passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 14. Steve was a loving father, respected basketball coach, and dedicated member of the Okemos High School staff. He spent everyday for the past 4 years as a building substitute at OHS, building relationships with students and staff instantly. Steve could be seen bouncing a tennis ball to students in the hallway, or telling his latest joke (with props, of course). He is known especially for his unique gift of positivity and encouragement. Steve's favorite thing to share were motivational quotes and life lessons to anyone that would listen.

Steve started his coaching career with Tom Izzo at MSU, and worked as a basketball coach at Lansing Community College, spent four years at Jackson Community College and had stints as a high school varsity coach at East Lansing, Sexton and Portland. He spent eight years leading East Lansing from 2010-18, and had been coaching the 8th grade boys team at Chippewa Middle School in Okemos. Steve had such a passion for youth sports, and teaching our youth those skills necessary to be a great athlete and even better human being.

Steve positively impacted the Greater Lansing area in many different facets, but had the greatest impact as a father. His daughter, Taylor Finamore, will be graduating this Fall from Michigan State University in Political Science. Steve's passion and humilities have been passed along to Taylor, as she will continue coaching with the middle school team this season.

The funds raised will go directly to Steve's daughter and his wife, Mary Hogan, to assist them as they carry on honoring his legacy as a coach, teacher, and phenomenal human being.