Robert Lowell Steeves, 76, passed away suddenly in the early morning hours of June 6, 2023.

Born to Charley and Martha Steeves February 7, 1947 he was a graduate of Eureka High School in 1954. He worked many years as a baker before joining Eureka City Schools as a custodian. While he was on staff at a few schools over the years, the majority of his 35 years was spent as Lead Custodian at Lafayette Elementary School. He was a truly beloved member of the Lions staff and so proud to be part of the Lafayette family.

Robert is survived by his wife Gina, married 33 years, and daughters, Shannon Steeves, Gwen Price (Vincent), Courtney Calkins (Christian) and twin sons, Kevin and Tony Steeves as well as Dane Crawford, whom Robert thought of as a son. He also leaves grandchildren Emily, Alex, West, Lucas and Samantha, as well as his brother Carl (Caryl), nieces Trish Palmer and Nancy Curtis (Tom), nephews, Bryan Steeves, and Wayne Steeves (London), and great-nieces, Karyn, Becca, Cara, Cyd-nee and Erin. Pets Mia and Milo are missing him greatly.

He was preceded in his passing by his parents, Charley and Martha Steeves, many aunts and uncles, mother-in-law Jennie Williamson, and father-in-law Larry Williamson who considered Robert a son from their first meeting.

Robert is sure to have been greeted on the next plane by close friends Bill, Gordon, Manny and best friend, Jerry Ross. These wonderful companions were a strong presence in his life and have all been missed beyond belief, just as our Rob Rob Rob, our dad, our papa will be missed.

The Saturday after Robert was gone was to be the usual Once a Month Breakfast get together, often referred to as “The Breakfast Club.” Although he was a very shy person, not much of a social animal, Robert was in charge of the reminder calls to the usual suspects including former and current coworkers Al, Hank, Rodger, Rory, Manny, Gordon and other ECS employees. Wives were even invited sometimes. They would meet, usually at Kristina’s, to share stories of their work week, possible retirement and general town gossip like old friends do. While The Breakfast Club lost a few members over the years, the memories were full and long-lasting for all who were fortunate enough to attend.

Robert’s family would like to express our tremendous gratitude to teachers, students and staff, his “work wife” of 20 years, Rosemary Kunkler, and friends Debbie and Aaron Pierce for helping Robert come out of his shell. The Lafayette Lions made his work a second home, a place full of comfort, love, and laughter.

There will be no formal service as Robert chose to be a donor to the Willed Body Program at University of San Francisco. Instead, a picnic to celebrate Robert’s life is being planned for late summer just before school starts.

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