Steven Flores

It is with deep love and sorrow that we mourn the passing of Esteban “Steve” Flores, who passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, in El Paso, Texas, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 92. His devotion, humor, and warmth is remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Born on July 17, 1933, in El Paso, Texas, Esteban “Steve” Flores was the beloved son of Tomasa Antonia Avila and Efren Flores. He was one of six siblings—Lydia, Martha, Ruben, Noemi, and Hector. Raised in the humble neighborhood of Chihuahuita, the poorest part of El Paso, Steve learned early in life the values of hard work, perseverance, and family devotion. He lost his father early on, and so he helped support his family from a young age as a shoeshine boy at the train station—defending his shoeshine spot with determination against others trying to take it. Later, as a teenager, he and his brother Ruben sold sandwiches, produce, ice cream, and peanuts to U.S. soldiers during World War II. Troop trains often sat in the sweltering El Paso heat as soldiers awaited orders, and these men were their customers. These early years instilled in Steve a lifelong sense of duty and pride.

Drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Steve served honorably in Europe and was stationed in Salzburg, Austria. Though he did not see combat, his service reflected his deep sense of dedication. Ever resourceful, he continued to support his family financially—lending money to fellow servicemen, cleverly charging interest to cover their poker games! Upon his honorable discharge, he followed his sisters to Los Angeles, California, seeking new opportunities and education.

In 1959, he met the love of his life, Florela “Flo” Marquez, at the Zenda Ballroom in Los Angeles. With a charming smile, he asked her to dance. When she told him she didn’t know how, he replied, “Stick with me, kid, and I’ll teach you!” It was at that moment that a lifelong love began. They were married on April 8, 1961. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised five

children—Steve, Sylvia, Mark, Laura, and Efren. The first home they purchased was in Cypress, California, before returning to City Terrace and eventually settling in Montebello, where they nurtured their growing family. The romantic he was, Steve cherished Flo deeply, often serenading her with songs.

Steve was a man of quiet ambition and deep integrity. When he completed his military service, Steve trained as a barber through the GI bill, and ultimately owned his barbershop in South Gate, California. Driven to achieve more, he earned his GED at Roosevelt High School in Boyle Heights and, while supporting his young family, pursued higher education. Steve earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Cal State University Los Angeles. His dedication and intellect led him to a long and distinguished career with the County of Los Angeles, where he retired as an executive in the Space Services Division. Steve was a loyal fan of the Dodgers and the Raiders, following his teams closely and going to games with his family every season.

In retirement, Steve and Flo returned to his hometown of El Paso, Texas, embracing a new chapter in life filled with travel and community. They made their home on Bancroft Drive—a warm, welcoming house that soon became the heart of the family. Mornings were spent together in the living room with coffee as the gentle sunlight streamed through the windows, and summers and holidays overflowed with family visits, stories, and shared meals. The home reflected the love and togetherness that defined Steve’s life—warm, generous, and deeply devoted to family.

Steve and Flo explored the world together, from Europe to South America, and cherished every moment spent with loved ones. They particularly enjoyed cruises shared with family. Steve volunteered his time generously, always seeking to give back to the community that had shaped him. They volunteered at Aoy Elementary supporting and raising funds for student programs as well as recruiting local businesses to donate money and supplies for families in need. They were proud members of Club de Oro, a social group for seniors who came together to sing and connect in their love of music. Their home, where meetings were held, was often filled with music, as Steve sang and played guitar with warmth and joy among friends.

He was a man of humor and kindness, a natural storyteller who loved nothing more than having his family close. Above all, Steve was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His unwavering love for Flo and his family was the cornerstone of his life. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the stories he shared. Steve lived a life rich with purpose and affection—a life remembered with deep gratitude and everlasting love. He will be missed more than words can express. In his kindness we found comfort, in his strength we found guidance, and in his love we found home.

Esteban Flores is preceded by his parents, Efren and Tomasa; his loving wife, Florela; his brothers and sisters, Lydia, Martha, Ruben, Noemi, and Hector; his son-in-law, Gregg; and his grandson, Nickolas. He leaves behind his children, Steve (Magda), Sylvia, Mark (Norma), Laura (Manny), and Efren; his grandchildren, Sarah, Eric, Rebecca, David (Julie), Ruby, Ally, and Amelia (Gabriel); and his great grandchildren, Mary, Jesse, Kingston, Jameson, Melody, Xander, Ben, Ian, and Daniel.

His presence will be felt in every shared memory and every gathering of those he loved.