Stephen Robert Gale

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother Anita in 2007. Born on his father’s 18th birthday, Steve held a special position in the family. He was a lifelong mentor and guardian to his 8 younger siblings. His family meant everything to him. Steve lived most of his 72 years in the bay area graduating from San Ramon High School in 1968. He went on to San Francisco State University to earn his degrees in History, English and Graphic Arts. In 1979 Steve started his own business, Arroyo Graphic Co. in Pacheco, Ca. as a photographic and printing service to local engineers and architects. He built his own large format graphic camera systems from scratch successfully competing with the big companies in the city. After selling his business to one of his employees, he taught in several local high schools including Del Amigo, Alhambra and Acalanes, later teaching “at risk” students at Summit High School. He later worked as a CalSTRS benefits counselor at the CC County Office of Education. After retirement he remained in the bay area until very recently moving down to Hanford Ca to care for his aging father.

Steve had a creative spirit that manifested in his relationships with his family, friends and business associates. He gave more than he got but that’s what made him happy. At times he could be gruff, but underneath was a frustration with injustice/brokenness and his desire for perfection in an imperfect world. Steve often would say “If you complain a lot, God makes you live longer”. He was an avid reader with many interests including history, photography, baseball (Go Giants!), backpacking/camping, restoring vintage motorcycles among others.

Steve was very intelligent, giving, funny, caring, a good listener and very supportive to his family. We were very lucky to have him as our big brother. He left this world too soon, bound for a place where there are no more burdens and the perfection he sought is found – and he will no longer have to eat his peas. Steve is survived by his father Jim Gale, brothers Paul, Jimmy, Peter, David, John, Tim and sisters Kathy and Jeanie as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles who loved him very much.

Rest in Peace Stevie. We miss you.