Steven Alvin George Thompson [aka Spiritual]

February 20, 1951 – February 1, 2025 

Steven was a man of many passions and talents. He had a deep love for horse racing, hockey, and people. His culinary skills were legendary, with many fondly remembering his famous Jerry’s Chicken & Ribs and Spiritual Burgers. He was renowned for hosting BBQs and massive parties for hundreds, if not thousands, of people at his home at 1620 Wellington Crescent. Bands often practiced in the basement and sometimes played during these gatherings, which featured “Spiritual Mushrooms.” Steven was one of the original founding members (1974) of the longest-running hockey draft in the world, the Original Fans. He continued to be a crucial part of the draft throughout his life. His ceremonial “inaugural bombers” at the drafts were iconic, as were his unique (and usually hilarious) pronunciation of player names. After being approached by the local founding members, Steven supplied the music/entertainment for the legendary Kenora Smoke and Fish Derby at Scotty Island on Lake of the Woods in the 1970s, where two- to three thousand and more revellers would gather for a weekend of fun, fishing, food, and live music.

Steven’s deep connection to the local music scene was unmatched. As a key agent with the Hungry I Agency, he played a crucial role in nurturing and promoting local talent. When they came to pay booking fees, he made a point to tell all musicians to watch the 1974 film “Phantom of the Paradise,” showing at the Garrick Theatre, to understand that a hit is a hit is a hit, no matter how it’s performed. His office at the Hungry I, conveniently located around the corner from the Garick Theatre, became the hub where musicians learned that a hit tune could be played by five or six bands in five or six different ways and still be a hit each time. The film’s run, initially planned for three days, was extended repeatedly for months due to its massive local success. Steven even helped financially challenged bands to attend the screenings. His passion for music and his understanding of the industry dynamics, as portrayed in the film, resonated widely, contributing to the movie’s surprising success in Winnipeg.

Steven was also known for his unique fashion sense, often seen in his signature sweater vests, corduroy pants, hush puppy shoes (specifically Wallabees), and a navy wool blazer. His thick glasses were a distinctive part of his look. Saturdays at 5:30 were spent playing Kinsmen Bingo since he was a teen. He also loved playing crib and chess, engaging in many epic crib battles over the years.

Steven’s contributions to the music community will be remembered and cherished by many. Steven was a stalwart defender of human rights, equity, and justice in all his actions. During his musical career, he fought bar owners in his support of Indigenous bands, all-female bands, female-led bands, and LGBT+ bands, which was groundbreaking in the 1970s. He also championed fair pay for musicians to what is now called a ‘living wage,’ significantly reducing the number of people seeking relief from social services.

Steven faced challenges with resilience and courage. In his late teens, he was arrested and went to jail, where he staged a hunger strike to protest the maggot-infested food. Also, he was instrumental in starting a program that allowed inmates to attend school while serving their sentences.

Steven was a genius at tactics and strategy, and his brilliance was evident in many aspects of his life. His legacy of providing spiritual guidance touched countless lives. His good sense and incredible wisdom left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. Anyone who has ever met Steven has at least one unique—and often incredibly wild—story about ‘Spiritual.’

“Tootles. Have a good life.”

Steven was born in Winnipeg on Tuesday, February 20, 1951. With his loving wife by his side, he passed away peacefully at home on Saturday evening, February 1, 2025. He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Joyce Thompson. He is survived by his Anne, her children Stephanie (Mike), and Gordon (Sara), and his sister, Nancy Church, Whitehorse, Yukon. Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to Sunshine House is appreciated.