Steven "NeNe" M. Delgado

In the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, on February 27, 1952, Steven “NeNe” Martinez Delgado was born to Fortunato Delgado and Aurora Encinas. He entered the world with a spirit full of warmth, laughter, and resilience—qualities that would define his life and the legacy he left behind.

From his earliest days, Steven grew up surrounded by the love of family and the rich culture of his Arizona roots. He attended Dunbar Elementary and later Phoenix Union High School, where he built friendships and memories that would stay with him forever. But the greatest treasure of his high school years was Maria—his soulmate, his best friend, and the love of his life.

At just 17 years old, Steven made a lifelong commitment, marrying Maria on August 21, 1969, at the Justice of the Peace in Phoenix. Their love was strong, steadfast, and filled with 53 years of unwavering devotion. Together, they created a home filled with love and raised four beautiful children, who became the center of their world.

Steven was a hardworking man. Fresh out of high school, he took a job with The City of Phoenix’s trash removal department, back in the days when trash was still lifted by hand—no automated forks, no shortcuts, just pure hard work. But to Steven, it wasn’t just a job; it was a way to provide for his family, to ensure their happiness and security.

Yet, Steven’s true passion was never in his work—it was in his family. He lived for them. When his children were young, he didn’t just cheer from the sidelines—he became their Little League coach. He wanted to be there for every moment, to guide them, to celebrate their wins, and to lift them up in their losses.

He had a love for Kung Fu, especially “The Lion Dance,” a mesmerizing Chinese tradition that fascinated him. This love only grew as he watched his grandchildren train in Kung Fu, cheering them on as they advanced through their belts. His pride in them was unmatched.

At home, Steven found joy in the simplest of things. He had an undeniable love for western movies, with John Wayne and Gregory Peck as his favorite actors. He also had a guilty pleasure—Storage Wars—which fueled his curiosity and entertained him endlessly.

But if there was one thing that could fill the house with laughter, it was Steven watching Ridiculousness. The sound of his booming, infectious laughter echoed through every room, bringing joy to everyone around him. His laugh was so hearty, so genuine, that it became a soundtrack to home, a reminder of the happiness he carried within him. Steven was also a keen people-watcher, which is why working at the casinos became one of his favorite jobs. He loved observing the world around him, seeing stories unfold in the lives of strangers, and coming home to share his hilarious and unforgettable tales with his family.

Beyond his love for people, he adored dogs. His beloved Khloe, Zeus, and Hades (the brown dog) weren’t just pets—they were family, receiving the same unconditional love that he gave to everyone in his life.

For 53 years, Steven and Maria walked through life together, side by side—through challenges, victories, and countless moments of love. He was her rock, her protector, her forever love.

On February 23, 2025, just days before his 73rd birthday, Steven’s incredible journey came to an end. He left behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. His spirit remains in the hearts of those who knew him—his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, his siblings, his friends, and all the lives he touched.

Though he has joined his parents in eternal peace, his laughter still echoes, his love still lingers, and his stories will continue to be told.

Steven “NeNe” Martinez Delgado lived a life full of joy, purpose, and unbreakable love. And in the hearts of those who loved him, he will live on forever.

A "Celebration of Life" for Steven will be held Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services Maryvale Chapel, 6901 West Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85033.