Steve lived with courage and steady purpose, meeting life with a brave spirit and a kind heart. He was deeply beloved, and those who knew him best will remember a man whose selfless nature showed most clearly in the way he put others first—at home, in service, and among friends.
He graduated from Lincoln High School in San Diego and went on to receive a bachelor's degree from San Diego State University.
"Lips" dedicated 36 years to law enforcement, retiring from the San Diego Police Department. He also served in the Navy Special Warfare Unit as a beach jumper—an expression of the resolve and quiet strength that shaped his life and work.
On August 23, 1986, Steve married Patty Margetts in San Diego, CA. His greatest passion was always the people he loved—family and friends—alongside the sports and traditions that brought everyone together: basketball, softball, Over-the-Line (OTL) beach softball, golf, football, and soccer.
He gave generously of his time and leadership within the San Diego Police Department community. Lips participated in the San Diego Police Department Athletic League, served as Vice President of SDPD POA, and was a member of OMBAC and the Emerald Society. He also coached the SDPD Softball team, offering encouragement and guidance with the same steady care that defined him.
Steve is survived by Patty Margetts (née Krupa), spouse; Josianne Michele Solorio, stepdaughter; Joshua S. Margetts, son; grandchildren Cruz Antonio Solorio, Max Andrew Solorio, Tanya Vianney Solorio, Mya Margetts Turner, Taylor J. Margetts, and Matthew Mason; sisters Peggie Margetts Anderson and Donna Lusignan; brother Andy Margetts; and Antonio Solorio, Julie and Randy Benitez, Kenny and Ruth Krupa, Daniel, Jared and Matthew Benitez, Cora-Anne Zwartjes, Michele Krupa, Vincent Krupa, The Solorio family, Ernie and Noel Susi and family, and Peggie's children (Johnny, Jimmy, Gina, Brandi) and Tammy Benninger-Gilder.
A Committal Service with Military Honors will be held at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85024, on October 22, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am. Steve's final resting place will be at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix.
