Steven Shamlian

Steven A. Shamlian: Husband, Father, Hunter, Fisherman, and Pit-master Extraordinaire

It is with heavy hearts that we honor and remember the life of Steve, an exceptional individual who left a lasting mark on the world as a skilled hunter, fisherman, and pitmaster. Steve's passion for the great outdoors and fine cuisine brought joy and inspiration to all fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.  The love for his family was immeasurable. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 16 years, Liz Correa Shamlian; children, Nicole (Cary) Charvat and Steven (Mona) Shamlian; grandchildren Cole Charvat, Mary Charvat and Cayde Shamlian.  Steve was owner of Shamlian Construction and spent many years working in the wholesale business along side his father.

Born on February 6, 1952, to Calvin Shamlian and Bernice Wyrick Bottoms in Harlingen, TX, he had an adventurous spirit and spent countless hours exploring the vast outdoors immersing himself in nature's beauty. Whether it was tracking prey through the South Texas brush or casting his line into the Gulf of Mexico, his connection with the natural world was deeply profound. Every hunting expedition and fishing trip was an opportunity to embrace the serenity and challenge of the wild, forging memories forever etched in the hearts of those who came along and joined him in these adventures.

But it was Steve's skill as a pit-master that truly set him apart. The tantalizing aroma of his barbecue traveled through the air, drawing friends and family from near and far. With his touch and unrivaled dedication to the craft, Steve transformed mere cuts of meat into succulent, flavorful winning plates that led to over 80 Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion titles, including the coveted Smokin’ On the Rio State Championship in Mercedes, Texas. While a member of IBCA he attained his dream the top ten honors as overall cook for three years due to his numerous wins in the State of Texas.  His legendary barbecue will be highly regarded forever, a testament to his culinary genius.

Beyond these exceptional skills, Steve had a gift for camaraderie.  His infectious smile and genuine kindness brightened the mood wherever he went. He captivated friends and family with tales of his outdoor escapades, instilling in them a love for nature, and a sense of appreciation for its wonders.
Though our hearts ache with this loss, we must find solace in the memories he left behind.

Let us honor Steve's legacy.  Let’s revere the great outdoors and spark a passion for adventure and remember that neighborly competition is just another way of strengthening the bonds of friendship.
We shall carry his spirit within us, forever grateful for the joy he brought to our lives. May his memory guide us through the darkest days, reminding us to cherish special moments in the simplest pleasures. Rest in peace, Steve, and may your eternal journey be as bountiful and fulfilling as the life you lived.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Honorary pallbearers are Steve Butzer, Jerry Cardenas, Oscar Garcia III, Carlos Guerra, Paul Hornaday, Phillip Kellogg, Josh Kovar, and Cruz Tijerina.

Friends and family are cordially invited to a visitation, on Sunday, September 10th, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM and a memorial service on Monday, September 11th at 1:00 PM at Buck Ashcraft Funeral Home in San Benito.

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