Obituary of Elena Marie Steeves

Elena Marie Steeves passed away peacefully at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, CA on August 10, 2017 at the age of 47. Elena, a local of Santa Cruz and former resident of Tacoma, WA is survived by her mother, Carolyn Sue Steeves; daughter, Precious Steeves; son, Terrence Keller; brother, Ron Steeves (all of Santa Cruz); sisters, Peggy Terronez and Mary Ann Rummel of Auburn, CA; and brothers, Frank Rossini of Carmel, CA and Donald Rossini of Salinas, CA. She was preceded in death by her father, David Steeves of Santa Cruz and sister, Carolyn Duff of Lakeland, FL. Elena Marie Steeves was born on May 26th, 1970 in Santa Cruz, CA to Carolyn Sue Steeves and David Arthur Steeves. She graduated from Harbor High in 1988. Elena is best known for being a loving mother and homemaker who ensured that her children never went without and always prioritized their needs above all else. Elena touched the lives of all that were fortunate enough to have met her. She would reach out to friends that did not have family near during the holidays and make sure they had a home cooked meal. Despite her illness, she would go above and beyond to ensure those around her were accounted for. There were no bounds for her love, compassion, and selflessness. Elena had a very inquisitive and artistic mind, learning graphic design and web development as a means of challenging herself mentally and expressing her art in a medium that touched many far and wide. A published poet, ceramicist, painter, and chef; Elena was always finding a means to communicate her love of life and those around her. Elena's love and compassion reached beyond her immediate family and friends in the form of HIV awareness and Activism, creating digital content that advocated for education and protection. She was always the first to defend and help those who could not help themselves, a trait which she nurtured in both of her children. Elena will be dearly missed by all who were graced by her presence. A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, August 27th at 1:30 PM at the Santa Cruz Memorial - Oakwood Chapel at 3301 Paul Sweet Rd., Santa Cruz, CA followed by a Celebration of Life at VFW Hall at 2259 7th Ave., Santa Cruz, CA from 3:30 PM -10 PM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Elena's life. Flowers and condolences may be sent to 225 Ocean Street, Santa Cruz CA.