Steve King

Stephen "Steve" J. King II, 69, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away on June 28, 2026, in Fort Collins. Born on April 9, 1957, in Salina, Kansas, Steve was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose faith and love for his family defined his life.

Steve spent his younger years growing up in Mt. Kisco, New York with his sister Melissa and brother David. When he was 10 years old, the family moved to San Jose, California where they lived until 1974. He attended Branham High School until his senior year, when his family relocated to White Plains, New York. He graduated from White Plains High School with the Class of 1975.

As a young boy, Steve discovered a lifelong love of sports. Coached by his Dad, Steve began playing Little League baseball in Mt. Kisco, New York, and continued playing ball throughout his youth. Although he also competed on the swim team and played football, baseball always held a special place for Steve. A devoted fan of all things sports, Steve loved his San Francisco Giants and enthusiastically followed both the San Francisco 49ers and, after making Colorado his home, the Denver Broncos. Steve also had a love-hate relationship with golf and would constantly remind himself that golf was a good walk ruined.

After taking time away from school, Steve returned to pursue his education at San Jose State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism and Communications. His determination to complete his education reflected the perseverance and commitment that would characterize the rest of his life.

After graduating from San Jose State University, Steve began a career in mask layout design that would span more than 40 years. He genuinely loved the technical challenges of semiconductor design and was fascinated by the constant evolution of the industry. Steve often shared stories about new technologies, solving complex design problems, and the innovations that shaped his work. In the later years of his career, one of his challenges was mentoring co-workers who were new to the field, generously sharing his knowledge, experience, and encouragement with the next generation of designers.

In 1989, Steve met his future wife, Sandy, at a company-sponsored softball practice. Steve and Sandy were married on March 31, 1990, in South Lake Tahoe, California, and together built a wonderful life filled with faith, love, laughter, and devotion to their family.

Music was another lifelong passion. As a child, Steve played the Trombone, later learning bass and acoustic guitar, along with piano. He loved classic rock, worship music, country, Southern rock, and just about everything in between. Whether listening, playing, or sharing a favorite song, music brought him great joy.

Steve had a remarkable gift for making people feel like they belonged. Whether welcoming someone at church, spending time with family, or visiting with friends, he made each person feel seen, valued, and important. He was an exceptional listener who truly cared about others. Whether talking about sports, music, current events, history or his faith in God, Steve was always ready to share a conversation. More importantly, he was always willing to listen, offer encouragement, pray with someone in need, or enjoying a dinner out, or attending a ball game together. His gentle spirit, easygoing nature, and compassionate heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Affectionately known as Dad and Papa, Steve is survived by his beloved wife of more than 36 years, Sandy; his three stepsons, Bob Safford (49) of Bend, Oregon, Dan Safford (48) of Kempner, Texas, and Steven Hooker (46) of Loveland, Colorado; his sister, Melissa Riqueros of Santa Cruz, California; his nephew, Nick Riqueros of Aptos California; his niece, Shannon (Safford) Olson of Bothell, WA; and his nephew, Jack Safford of Seattle, WA. Steve was a proud Papa to 11 grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Nothing brought a bigger smile to his face than hearing one of them call out, "Papa."

After making Fort Collins his home in November 1998, Steve embraced life in Colorado and treasured his church family at Calvary Chapel of Fort Collins.

Steve's greatest joy was never found only in the games he played or the music he loved, but in the people God placed in his life. His legacy lives on in the faith he shared, the family he loved, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering love. He will be remembered for the way he made people feel—welcomed, valued, and deeply cared for.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Stephen J. King; his mother, Elizabeth "Bette" King; and his brother, David King.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Timberline Church (South Entrance) in Fort Collins, Colorado. Family, friends, and all who knew and loved Steve are warmly invited to attend as they celebrate his life, his unwavering faith, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.