On December 30, 2021, Steven “Steve” Valdez Jr., a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend entered eternal life at age 37.
Steven graced the earth on March 31, 1984 in Phoenix, Arizona to Steven Sr. and Florentina. Steven will be remembered as a funny, sweet and free-spirited boy, who was one of the few to carry out his passions as he transitioned into adulthood.
To many, Steven was known as a music enthusiast for his knowledge in musical culture and wide range of genres. However, his most favorite music of all time derived from the band TOOL. He also learned to play the bass, drums, and other instruments, as well as having been a part of a band(s), just as he’d always dreamt of.
Some of his greatest joys involved bicycling and group rides with his favorite bike crew, attending concerts and sporting events, traveling, experiencing nature, trying new things, spending time with his nieces and nephews and making people laugh just to highlight a few.
Though he lived an unconventional lifestyle, no matter where life brought him, he chose to live and not just exist. For his passions gave him a sense of purpose, whether it be having the ultimate jam session, beating another record on one of his bicycle rides, helping out his loved ones, providing love and laughter for so many, or even being the rock we never knew we needed. Steven simply did what he loved to do and that is his legacy.
His spirit is carried on by his mother, Florentina Golna; his father, Steven Valdez Sr. (Becky); his five sisters, Evangeline Gonzalez (Baltazar), Darlene Valdez-Lopez (Julio), Veronica Gutierrez (Manuel), Christine Valdez, and Ashley Golna; his 16 nieces and nephews and 10 great nieces and nephews; and his other relatives and friends.
Memorial service will be held on Friday, January 21, 2022, at 2:30 p.m. at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. There will be a Celebration of Life held in his honor at his father’s home.
In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Barrow Neurological Foundation and Crossroads, Inc. would be appreciated.
April Romero
Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so sorry for your loss. I met Steven in Jr. High and we shared lots of laughs together over the years. He will be greatly missed.
Samantha
To the departed: Although we only spoke occasionally recently; you will always be a staple character in my life, while transitioning into adulthood. Parties, singing, jamming, dancing and wild nights. It was always good to see you randomly at music events since, as this was a very unique occurrence amongst our friend group. As a musician, I hold you in high regard for being open to experience all genres. Even the crazy ones I hold so close and dear. Going back to read our old dms brought a smile to my face. I hope you have found the peace you were seeking.
Rest Easy homie.
Sending strength and healing to all of Steve’s family and friends being affected by this extreme loss.
Ciera
So much love for Steven. I will miss him very much. From singing songs in the car to bike riding. We had a lot of fun together. Thank you for bringing him into the world Valdez family.
Becky
Mijo RIP I love you and miss you so much. ❤
Jerry Monreal
My Condolences to Steve and Steven Jr. family. Sending prayers and comfort to all. God bless.
Linda Farrell
Steve, I am so sorry and sad to learn about your son passing away. No words on this earth could comfort you during this difficult time. The Lord needed Steve upstairs to sprinkle his loving spirit to others. I’m here should you need someone to talk with. Sending love, friendship & hugs to you, Becky & your beautiful family.
Christina Bradley
Steven will be greatly missed by all. I’ve known him since junior high and have a lot of shared memories with him. My condolences to all his family during this hard time. May you find peace and comfort. Rest in peace now Valdeezy. Lots of love-Chrissy xoxo
George Golna
My condolences to everyone that knew Steven. I am saddened greatly by Steven‘s passing. He had so much love especially for his siblings, nieces, and nephews. As I looked at his photos and videos, it reminded me how much love and joy he had for them. I miss his positive and happy attitude toward every adventure even when being naughty. We all miss you Steven.
Hayden and Jennie
Love you Veronica! We’re thinking of you and your family. Your night team misses you dearly and we are a little family of our own so we got you whatever you need.
Trevino Family
We send our condolences to you and your family
Crystal Froats
I’m so sorry to hear of Steven’s passing. Always such a nice and polite kid. Always will remember him and all his buddies hanging out at my house with Adam . They always had a blast together.. May God bless you and your family in this very difficult time.
Logan Smith
Steven was one of my oldest friends. He was well-liked, always a popular guy, and will be missed. I’m grateful he and I had kept in regular contact since after his hospital stay. My heart goes out to his family, and I’m sorry I couldn’t be in town for his services yesterday.
Love ya, Steven. See you on the other side.