Steve Toher

(4th June 1964 to 13th February 2024)

Steve Toher, a longtime Guild member, died suddenly on 13th February 2024. Steve was a serious naturalist who took his taxidermy as seriously. He enthusiastically entered into Guild activities as speaker, competitor, judge, committee member and conference organiser.

More recently, he had become interested in woodcarving and became very active in the British Decoy & Wildfowl Carving Association. He won the British Bird Carving Competition in 2013 and 2019.

Steve was also a keen participant in the World Taxidermy Championships, and the European Taxidermy Championships (ETC) where he was also an organiser. For a number of years, he worked at the Royal Museum of Scotland, the culmination of which was mounting all the primates for a huge travelling exhibition titled, Monkey Business.

We can think of no more fitting tribute than that by the ETC published shortly after his death:

“It is with deep sadness that we bid farewell to Steve Toher, a cherished member of our taxidermy community. Steve's profound expertise and passion for the craft were unparalleled, leaving an indelible mark on the taxidermy industry and beyond.

For four decades, Steve dedicated himself to his artistry, crafting lifelike representations of nature's wonders, primarily for museums. His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to accuracy set a standard admired by all who had the privilege of witnessing his work.

Beyond his skilful hands, Steve's warm demeanor and generous spirit endeared him to colleagues and friends alike. His presence illuminated every gathering, infusing it with laughter, camaraderie, and shared passion for our craft.

As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the legacy Steve leaves behind - a legacy of excellence, camaraderie, and boundless creativity. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives on in the masterpieces he created and the memories he etched into our hearts.”