The Life and Legacy of Dr. Steven Mark Pound
May 4, 1950 – May 2, 2025
With heavy hearts we share the passing of an outstanding man, our beloved Steve Pound, who left us peacefully, at home with family by his side. Affectionately also called “Pounder”, “Coach”, “Stevie”, “Dr. Pound”, “Dad” and “Big Papa”, Steve must have had more hours in a day than the rest of us. What he accomplished in his life is astonishing and somehow, alongside his incredible athletic and professional career, he also prioritized staying in touch with his friends and loved ones; he truly lived life to the fullest until the very end. To “sum up” such a life and his impact is impossible, but considering many do not know his story — like he always did — we will give it our best shot.
Born in Millinocket, Maine, Steve revealed his character from very early on. He went to Stearns High School, and after being told he was the worst shooter his coach had ever seen, Steve was determined to prove him wrong. He shoveled snow off outdoor courts, put in the hours, and became the top high school scorer in the US, a USA All-American, and won the state championship in 1968, averaging over 40 points per game with 68 points scored in a single match (before the 3-point line).
A Scholar
With super academic credentials and a chance to attend his pick of US colleges with full-ride scholarships, Steve chose Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, for his post-secondary education. At Acadia, he became an immediate AUS All-Star and remained so for all four years, an All-Canadian and National MVP by his second year when he led the nation in scoring, the leader of the national championship team in ‘71, and captain of the CIS runners-up in ‘72. He also still holds the record as the all-time leading scorer at Acadia with over 2,000 points. Steve’s educational pursuits did not end with his BSc and highest GPA in his class, he went on to get a MA from Dalhousie, a BEd from Acadia, and a PhD in educational leadership from Université Laval.
A Champion
In 1974, Steve won the Canadian Men’s League championship and continued his basketball journey professionally for two years in Europe, where he led the English league in scoring and delivered remarkable 55-point performances with Doncaster’s Wilson Panthers, earning a place in the 1976 Guinness Book of Records.
Steve’s journey then took him to Quebec City, where he made a lasting impact at Quebec High School. He excelled in every role he held — from teacher, coach, vice principal to principal. Education wasn’t just his career; it was his calling.
Returning to Acadia for the position of Director of Alumni Affairs, Steve travelled the globe for the next twelve years and enjoyed being the assistant coach of the men’s basketball team. His leadership was monumental to the university, where he built lasting friendships that meant the world to him.
Lifelong Learning
Steve then became Superintendent of Schools in Greenville, Maine, for the next six years; in addition, he served as Director of the State Adult Education Program. His valuable educational experience further led to Steve being sought out to help create the Cianbro Institute and through his work on over thirty committees, he championed workforce development and lifelong learning.
Steve’s skills in basketball earned him places in several halls of fame: the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame (Athlete and Team), the Acadia Sport Hall of Fame (Athlete and Team), the New England High School Basketball Hall of Fame, the Maine Sports Hall of Fame, and the Maine Basketball Hall of Fame. His impact on education and athletics is also being recognized this May when he will posthumously receive the prestigious Maine Principals Association Hall of Excellence award.
A Family Man
A family man through and through, Steve is being mourned by his wife Elisabeth Pound, whose love and strength became a constant source of support, especially during his many health struggles. He was the proud father of two children, Mark Pound (Angela) and Sarah Pound, and stepson, Michael Martin (Melisa). His legacy lives on in the laughter and love of his five grandchildren: Mackenzie, Zoey, Madison, Ember, and Lyla.
Steve is survived by siblings Kim Pound (Stacia), Brent Pound (Pam), Kathy Jo Rosenberger, Paula Savalas (Leo), and step-siblings Woody, Pete, and Jill. He was preceded in death by his father, Ozwald Pound, his mother, Lorraine Warren, and his stepmother, Emily Pound. Others who held a meaningful place in his heart and journey are Janice Henderson and stepfather, Ollie Warren.
Quality Time
Steve worked hard, but he also enjoyed travel and quality time with friends and family, especially in his retirement. He savoured time at the lake, looking for eagles, drifting on his houseboat, and travelling to new places, as well as going on many fishing, football, golf, and hunting trips with the boys. He also always made time to visit his kids, grandchildren, friends, and family in Nova Scotia.
Steve Pound’s story is one of legacy — not just in brick and mortar or titles held, but in the minds inspired and lives touched. With his larger-than-life personality and passion for helping others, the bonds he created were lasting and hugely meaningful. His tenaciousness, humility, and amazing sense of humour made him the lovable guy he was. We will definitely miss that twinkle in his eye, exuberant laughter, and his infectious smile. Rest in peace, our dear Stevie-Dad-Big Papa.
Steve will be remembered and celebrated both in Maine and Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia Reception:
Saturday, June 14th, 2:00 pm at the Old Orchard Inn, Wolfville.
Maine Graveside Service and Reception:
Tuesday, July 8th, 2:00 pm at the Millinocket Town Cemetery followed by a reception at the Northern Timber Cruisers Snowmobile Club.
All are welcome at the graveside service.