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John Hollenhorst ReportingOne of Utah's greatest legends has died. It was revealed last week that Charlie Steen, "The Uranium King," died in Colorado. It brings to an end a saga of rags-to-riches -to-rags that made Steen world famous.
Charlie Steen actually died New Years Day. But one faction in his feuding family kept it secret from other relatives. The conflict is so bitter that one of his sons and his only sister didn't know until a few days ago that the legendary Charlie Steen was dead.
In 1992, Charlie Steen was guest of honor at Moab's Fourth of July parade. He was re-united with the old Jeep in which he rocketed to fame and fortune.
John Hollenhorst: "What do you think, Charlie? How does it look?" Charlie Steen, 1992: "Looks pretty good to me."
In the 50's Steen came to Utah from Texas. He prospected for uranium while his family lived in poverty. A 50's TV show portrayed Steen striking it rich; rock samples he placed in his Jeep triggered wild clicking by a geiger counter.
The discovery launched an era for Moab, recalled by a new museum exhibit. Almost overnight, Steen changed Moab from cow-town to center-stage for the suddenly important uranium industry.
Rusty Salmon/ Dan O'Laurie Museum: "And eventually built a mill here, the only privately owned mill in the United States at a time when the U.S. was actively looking for a uranium source."
With his newfound wealth, Steen spent lavishly on parties for friends, employees and visiting celebrities.
Maxine Newell, Moab: "He was just a nice person."
Maxine Newell remembers his strong support for charities.
Maxine Newell/ Moab Resident: "Any time we ever went to Charlie, he was right there."
By the late 60's, bad investments and tax troubles brought Steen down until he was nearly broke again.
Charlie Steen, July 4, 1992: "I got outside my field of knowledge. And all the experts are saying, 'Diversify, diversify.' All the bankers and all them. And I diversified, to my family's expense."
In later years, Steen developed Alzheimer's disease and his sons fell into a bitter custody dispute. There were accusations of neglect and abuse, court battles over remnants of the fortune.
Andrew Steen/ Charlie's Son/ November 2003: "Now I don't think there's much happiness. And we're the most.. we're the quintessential dysfunctional family."
Steen always hoped for another big find, but he knew it would never be as big as the Big One.
Charlie Steen, 1992: "No. No way. But I can be rich again."
Although he lived in relative comfort in his later years, Charlie Steen never did get rich again. When he died, the Uranium King was 86.
