Read Stephen James Avelleyra's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Stephen James Avelleyra

St Petersburg, Florida

September 26, 1960 - May 17, 2019

Sep 26, 1960 - May 17, 2019

Help keep everyone in the know by sharing this memorial website.

Share

Photo

Steve Avelleyra, 58, returned to his heavenly home on May 17, 2019 after a valiant battle with cancer. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.

Steve was born on September 26, 1960 in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Steve grew up in Lansing, Michigan with his parents and five siblings. After graduating from Everett High School, Steve attended and earned his BS degree from Northern Michigan University and began teaching high school English in Ohio. From there he ventured to Maine where he completed his masters degree in Speech Discourse Analysis at the University of Maine. In subsequent years Steve lived and worked in twelve different states.

Although Steve was very successful as a business manager also, he was an educator at heart. There were many times when he “corrected” our tenses or grammar uses. Steve had a keen interest in the performing arts and acted in many local drama productions in various cities. It was evident that he loved to perform with his family and many friends. This was an endearing quality as he kept us laughing and happy. To say that Steve was fun and energetic is an understatement. He was an avid runner and completed nine marathons in several states. Steve also liked to play games and stumped us all with his extensive trivia knowledge. If anyone suggested a euchre game he was the first one in. He once attended a euchre party and arrived with a trophy he had won at a previous tournament. Needless to say the tactic worked as he won again!

Steve was blessed with a large and loving family. He was very fortunate to find the love of his life in partner Robert Shores, who provided loving care until his passing. He is also survived by parents Alfonso and Norma Avelleyra, sisters Mary and Valdis Gailitis, Debbie and Paul Kyle, Kim Avelleyra and Cindy Mitchell, brothers Tom Avelleyra, and John Avelleyra, nephews/nieces Zack and Becky Spry, Spencer Spry, Taylor and Devan Davis, Tessa Feeley, John Avelleyra, grand nephews/nieces, Sammy Spry, Ashton Davis, Olivia Davis. And upwards of fifty cousins who prayed, called, visited and supported his final journey. Steve touched many lives as evidenced by the many friends who also provided needed prayers and support.

Steve is dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator.

Order a beautiful PDF you can print and save or share.

Get the PDF

Get notified when new photos, stories and other important updates are shared.