Steven Theodore De Jong

He was born on June 30, 1962, in Bellflower, California, to John and Tena De Jong. Steve grew up in the Artesia area, where he attended Valley Christian High School and later Cerritos College, where he studied engineering. He was raised alongside his brother, Willie, and his sisters, Ann, Fran, and Agnes, and is also remembered by many nieces and nephews.

Early in life, Steve drove hay trucks, which he loved, and took pride in his strong work ethic and independence. He also spent time working alongside his father, washing milk trucks, something he also genuinely enjoyed and often spoke fondly about.

More than anything, Steve was known for his perseverance and strength. On April 10, 1985, he sustained a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the waist down. He refused to let the injury define him. Through determination and grit, he continued to pursue an active life and accomplished remarkable athletic feats, to include winning the Long Beach Marathon. He also enjoyed water skiing, boating, tennis, riding ATVs, weightlifting, and pushing himself physically in ways that inspired those around him. His passion for adaptive sports even led to his appearance in a promotional video for Air Chair, highlighting the possibilities of life and sport after injury.

On April 22, 1989, Steve married Caroline McDaid, and had two sons, Eric and Austin. Together, they built a life centered around love and family. Steve was a devoted father who took immense pride in his boys. He taught them to ride bikes, motorcycles, and ATVs, took the family on camping trips, and somehow never missed a water polo game or swim meet.

Steve had a positive attitude, quick sense of humor, and a big smile he carried wherever he went. He will be remembered for his strength, determination, and the way he faced life’s challenges with courage and humor. His resilience and love for his family left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

His family takes comfort in knowing that the strength Steve showed throughout his life will continue to live on in those that knew him well, and that he is now free from the physical burdens that he carried with such great courage.