Steven Peter Tuyo passed away unexpectedly from natural causes at the young age of 28 at home in Indianapolis. While Indy was home for the past 5 years, prior to that he was proud to call Michigan his home; he loved everything about Michigan (well almost, sorry U of M fans). He was born to Kathie (Gorkowski) and Gerald Tuyo – their middle child and the proud brother of Mike (Tina) Tuyo and his younger sister Michelle and his older brother and sister John and Laura Turner from his mother’s first marriage, his oldest brother, Gerald Tuyo, and a devoted “just like a brother” to Garret (Abby) Biddinger.
He lived most of his young life in Livonia and Highland, MI where he had the fondest memories of his mother’s daycare. He quickly became the adorable and loved ringleader of many escapades that were a precursor to his years of caddying at Western Golf & Country Club, future leadership roles in Youth Group at St. Genevieve, and an illustrious career in wrestling at Franklin High School that took him to State Championships. College took him to the Evans Scholar House at Michigan State University where he continued to be an industrious leader. He was a proud and vocal fan of the Green and White, so imagine his surprise when he met and fell in love with his wife, Katye (Clark) Tuyo, a tried-and-true Boilermaker. He proudly gifted MSU apparel to all his nieces and nephews and extended married family, taught them to chant “Go Green, Go White”, and was bound and determined that at least one of these legacies would become a Spartan.
He met Katye in 2016 when she thankfully swiped right. On their first date he knew she was the one he would marry. When he went home that night, he wrote his first letter to his future wife where he professed his love forever and gave it to her on their wedding day on June 2, 2018. He always said that it was his job at Dow that brought him to Indianapolis, but it was what he found in his love for Katye and the life they built together that made him fall in love with Indy. Just as easily as he made friends all his life, he readily became best of friends with a host of fellow workers at Dow. Steven was a tireless worker and moved on to a position at Eli Lilly in early 2018 where he has been working since in Supply Chain Management. Always the innovator and thinker, he became business partners with a fellow Evans Scholar and friend, Eric Shomo, to put their entrepreneurial skills to the test by developing their first of what is bound to be a successful golf app.
Steven loved to travel and during his college years was game to hop on a plane and travel wherever a friend would suggest. With Katye they honeymooned cruising the Mediterranean and visiting their favorite ports of Naples, Rome, and Mallorca. Spent a week on the beach of Charleston. Captured the wonders of Yellowstone. Toured and hiked all over Maine; and ate lobster smothered in butter at every meal; Katye claimed that Steven’s love for lobster in butter stemmed from those wrestling meets where wins would be celebrated at Red Lobster with the Ultimate Feast.
Steven said, “Spread Love!” He loved to ride his bike and was like a kid when he purchased his first adult bike and rediscovered the joys of riding; he spent the first day riding through rain puddles and shouting for joy. He loved sports of any kind, but especially football wrestling and anything when MSU was playing. He loved board games and family dinners with friends, and there was many a Snap Chat of him winning at Monopoly even if it took multiple games for him to claim the title of “Defending Champ”. He loved his dogs; first Autumn and then his Harvey. He loved his friends no matter how long ago you talked or when you first became friends. He loved his family to no end. He loved his Katye, who was his rock, his Lobster (his Person), his best friend, his everything to him.
If you knew Steven, then you loved him and you knew that he loved you. He loved you fiercely, he loved you unconditionally, and he loved you forever.
He leaves behind his caring and loving wife Katye, his father Gerald, his brother Mike and his wife Tina, his brothers John and Gerald, his sisters Michelle and Laura, and his brothers in heart Garret and Eric. He leaves behind all of his and his wife’s family who loved him dearly, all of his extended family through both relations and actions, and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Kathie and dear friend Eli, who he is now with in Everlasting Peace. Heavenly Father, hold them all in Your Loving Hands.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steven’s name to two organizations that were very dear to him:
Brooke’s Place for Camp Healing Tree Donation Link – Steven donated his time and talent to this great Summer Camp Camp Link to Learn More where he was a Buddy to children who have experienced the grief and loss of a parent or loved one close to them. Please specify in the Comments it is for Camp Healing Tree as Brooke’s Place has a number of great programs.
Western Golf Association Evans Scholars Foundation Donation Link – Steven was a proud Evans Scholar, and the program was instrumental in his formation and college career. Please specify in the “Message Body” that the donation should be for the Michigan State Evans Scholar Chapter.
Funeral Arrangements
Steven’s Visitation and Funeral will be on Saturday, April 10th, 2021 at St Roch’s Catholic Church located at 3600 S. Pennsylvania St. Indianapolis, IN 46227.
Masks are required.
Open Visitation from 11 am – 2 pm
Eulogies at 2 – 2:25 pm
Funeral Mass at 2:30 pm
No internment at this time.
Notes of Importance: Marion County COVID recommendations allow for 50% attendance in Churches. For those who are unable to attend due to distance or illness, a Live Stream will be available from 2 pm until the end of the Funeral Mass. Steven would not want anyone to become ill with COVID; for everyone’s safety, please use an abundance of caution if you have any symptoms and utilize the Live Stream option. St. Roch’s and the family wish for everyone to be safe. Steven knows that your love and thoughts are with him no matter where you are.
Live Stream Link: https://www.facebook.com/saintrochindy/
Celebration of Life of Steven Peter
To be held at a later date in his beloved Michigan.
Steve was a great guy. He always had a smile on his face and was full of life. He was a great coworker and will be greatly missed.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Katie. He loved volunteering at camp.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleKatye,
Please know that your Brooke’s Place Camp Healing Tree family is with you during with difficult journey. You and your family are in our prayers and thoughts. We all had the great privilege of knowing Steve. He had a special way he helped his group while having fun and while helping them to learn how to grieve and heal. I personally got to be a buddy alongside Steve for several years. His compassion and laughter will be missed. He will not be forgotten. Camp Healing Tree exists because of caring and loving people like Steve. We are here for you.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you so much for your kind words Tim. He loved volunteering at camp.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteve was a mentor to me during my internship a summer ago at Eli Lilly. In the few short interactions we were able to have together that summer, I could tell Steve was a stand up guy. He was someone who both myself & fellow Michigan State interns were able to easily relate to and seek advice from. Thank you for everything Steve, I’m glad I was able to cross paths with you.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Garrett. I know he touched so many people’s lives.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleMy deepest condolences to the family!! I went to middle school with Steve and he was such a fun soul to be around. We both went to different high schools but we kept in touch here and there! I saw him from time to time in L-town (livonia) and he always took the time to say hello which meant a lot! May his memory live on forever in our hearts!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Christopher. I know he touched so many people’s lives.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleWill miss you big time brother. So thankful to have grown up with you and all the shenanigans we got into at Western, Riley and Franklin and some trips in college. I’ll never forget our spring break senior year where we were (sort of) roomies, and really became best friends during that time. Whether we were in classes together, playing golf, playing cards or just hanging out you always brought the energy to the room and were never short on wit or humor. It’s no wonder that so many people were affected by your loss as your personality made you someone that everyone wanted to gravitate to. I only got to meet your mom a handful of times but she was incredibly caring and but heaven will have gained another great soul with you reuniting with her. Rest easy Tuyo
Love,
Kozyn
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for the kind words Kozy. I know you were a good friend to him.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleGod bless you and your family Steve, you will truly be missed, I know you are with your mom now. Words can’t describe the loss everyone is feeling now, I still have video’s of you and the rest of the boy’s wrestling, those were great times my friend. We got your back Steve’o, will pick it up from here. God bless you ! The Steele family
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Gary.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleI am John and Laura’s Aunt Kathy’s sister-in-law but more sister than in-law. I loved this child from the day he was born. Kathy sent me pictures and he was just beautiful. My heart is truly broken. I love you guys, God Bless you and all the family.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Ruby.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteve & I were colleagues at Dow. My thoughts go out to all who are grieving. Steve always seemed to be in a good mood & kept smiling all day! Although I only knew him for a short time, he made a lasting impression.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Mark. He always loved all of the people at Dow.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleIt is so hard to believe that God has taken Steven to him so soon. We don’t know and don’t understand, and we probably won’t until we are with our Father in Heaven. I only came to know Steven through all the Clarks and was so impressed that he was able to seem like one of the family immediately – no small feat. He was a good, good man. My prayers are with Katye and his many friends and family members. Katye, you have a wonderful intercessor in heaven! God bless you Steven and please pray for us.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you so much for your kind words Fr. Patrick. I truly appreciate it.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteven was such a breath of fresh air when he was an intern at Dow AgroSciences and later became an employee. I had the pleasure of working with and sitting close to him. He always had a smile on his face, positive attitude and love for life. I’ll never forget when he told me about meeting Katye and it wasn’t long before he asked her to marry him. His face lit up so bright when he talked about her and their life. My heart breaks for Katye, his dad, siblings and all his extended family and friends. The only comfort is knowing he’s with his mom that he missed dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you and I’ll cherish the memories I have of Steven for the short # of years I knew him.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Rita. He always loved all of the people at Dow.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleKatye, we are sorry for your loss. We liked Steven from the first day we met him at Sam and Megan’s. Very special personality. We will continue with prayers.
-love and prayers, Anne and Greg
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you so much for the kind words and prayers Anne and Greg.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteve,
When I think of someone that lived life to the fullest, I’ll always think of you. Although you’re gone way too soon, I’m blessed to have known you. I’ve always admired your confidence, work ethic, and competitiveness. You could do it all. You made friends with ease and we instantly hit it off in 7th grade. We drifted apart over the years, but never too far. I always knew I had a friend in you. Rest In Peace.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for the kind words Jake.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleOn behalf of the Pantaleo family we send our prayers and condolences. God Bless.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your prayers.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleI am so sorry to hear about Steven. Steven was a very energetic, kind person. He worked in my group for over 2 years and was always positive. His love for his family, especially Katye and his dogs, was evident as he would tell us about vacations, stories about his dogs, or his future plans. My prayers are with you, Katye, as you navigate where to go from here. Let Steven’s positive energy continue living through all that you do in the future. Let his strong faith provide assurance that he is in good hands now. My deepest sympathy for all that loved him.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Laura.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleOur thoughts and prayers are with you and family.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your prayers Denny and Linda.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleTo Katye and the Tuyo Family, I am heartbroken, shocked and very, very sad to hear the news about Steven and I’m terribly sorry for your loss. Please accept my condolences and know that you are all in my prayers. I am an Evans Scholar Alumnus from Indiana University (1994). Back in 2015, Steven was new to Indianapolis and, as an Evans Scholar himself, he wanted to get involved locally with the alumni association for two reasons–he wanted to meet some of his fellow Evans Scholar brothers and sisters and he wanted to know what he could do to help recruit and train young caddies to give them the same opportunity he was given when he caddied–a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to college. Within a very short period of time, he was helping me train caddies at Hillcrest Country Club and he had taken the lead as one of two people running the local alumni association, regularly communicating with the local alums and setting up social events. This dude had more enthusiasm than the Energizer Bunny and seemingly never had a bad day. He had an energy and passion that was contagious and when he met you and had a conversation with you, it was like you’d known him for 20 years. He was as good and as genuine a guy as you would want to know and I’m grateful our paths crossed.
I’m not sure why God needs him right now, but I trust that plan and I suspect Steven will be getting involved up in Heaven as eagerly and energetically as he was down here on Earth.
Steven, on behalf of your Indianapolis Evans Scholar brothers and sisters, may you rest in peace. And, please, let IU win a game against MSU every once in a while.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Vince. He loved Evans Scholars and he loved MSU, so I’m not sure about that last bit because he loved a Spartan win over everything.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleI first met Steve in 2006, which was the summer before we started middle school, when his family moved backed to Livonia. I had heard a lot about him prior to that from some of my friends at the time, as they used to go to his Mother’s day care. Hearing a lot about him throughout elementary school, I always wondered what he was like. He fit right into our neighborhood friend group and we spent countless hours playing football, messing around at the bus stop, doing youth group activities, and so on. I was so glad to have met him because I don’t think I’ll ever meet anyone who was as positive as he was or who could light up a room like he could. It sounds a little cliché to say, but it is absolutely true about Steven. He could light up a room wherever he went and he had an uncanny ability to make people feel welcomed and loved. He was almost a Captain America type figure; always doing good, strong in his faith, extremely competitive, but a great sport, and always the star of the show (in the best way possible). He also happened to be the first human being that I ever saw eat a whole pizza to themselves! His impact was widespread and I know he will be very missed. My deepest condolences to Steven’s family and friends. He was truly one of a kind.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for the kind words and stories Kevin.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleIn the time that our family knew Steven, we knew that he was God’s plan for our Katye. I always had a feeling that his mom played a role in the choice. As with everything else in his life, he loved our Katye fiercely and completely. Every day I thanked God for his presence in our family’s lives. He assimilated himself so effortlessly in all of our lives and we were so thankful for the joy, love, and laughter that he brought with him. We are proud that like so many, we were able to call him one of ours. God called a golden heart home to Him and Steven will truly be missed by all of us.
Jim and Judy Clark
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you mom and dad. He loved and appreciated you both so much.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleI’m so sorry to hear about the passing of Steve. I was his supervisor during his internship at Dow. I really enjoyed getting to know him and work with him that summer and the few years after before he went to Lilly. He was bright, driven, and had an eagerness to learn. But, I was most impressed by his focus on the important things in life. I remember catching up with him after he met Katye – he was so excited and head over heels in love from the beginning and nothing was more important than her.
Please know that Steve made an impact – on me, those he worked with, and anyone who was lucky to have the opportunity to meet him.
-Corey Friedman
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Corey. He loved Dow and looked up to you as a mentor.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleKatye and Tuyo family, I did not have the pleasure of actually meeting Steven face to face due to COVID and our geographies, but I can say the person I worked with weekly virtually was truly a fabulous person and a credit to you. With all the busyness of work Steven always had a smile on his face and a great positive ‘can do’ attitude. So sending my heartfelt condolences to you from Cork, Ireland, during this difficult time. Steven will be missed here too.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Emily. Steven enjoyed being able to work with everyone and I always heard nothing but good things about his coworkers in Ireland.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteve was a great friend to all of us and we feel honored to have had the fortune of spending a few weeks with him in St. Andrews, Scotland for our study abroad program in 2015. We are heartbroken for Steve and his family, but are remembering the good times we had with our dear friend. Steve was incredibly kind and had an impact on so many people. Our group has donated $300 to each the MSU Evans Scholar Chapter and Camp Healing Tree in honor of Steve. To Katye, we are praying for you and you will forever have us as friends in East Lansing.
Go Green, Steve! Sláinte!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words. Steven loved this study abroad trip and I remember hearing all about it on our first date and many times after.
Go White!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteve was always the light in a room and the center or attention. He was a natural leader and someone I definitely looked up to. There was always smiles when he was around and I wouldn’t have many youth group memories without him. While we weren’t in close contact recently he definitely had an impact on my growth as a human loving other humans. You will be missed Steve. Give your mom hug for me!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Damon.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleDear Katye, Steve’s dad, siblings and entire family-
Steve went on my Scotland study abroad program in 2015. He was a model student in every regard, highly engaged in every aspect of the Scotland program. He was an enthusiastic leader, including and befriending everyone. Steve was passionate about life and all it had to offer while, at the same time, being humble, gracious and appreciative. I have very fond memories of Steve and am grateful our paths crossed in life. There are no words to express my sadness and sympathy. Please know Steve is right there with you. There is nowhere else he’d rather be. Look for his light, energy and love.
With deepest sympathy-
Dr. Eileen M. Wilson
Faculty Director, Scotland Program
Assistant Dean Emeritus
Eli Broad College of Business
Michigan State University
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words. He truly loved this trip and study abroad program.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleI’m so sorry to hear of the passing of Steven. I did not know him but I feel that I did. I was on a Highlands NC Facebook page looking for a specific post and scrolled past a post that contained Steven’s obituary. He looked like the son of a friend but I couldn’t place where. As I read the beautifully written words I felt an instant connection. I, too am from Michigan and attended Michigan State. I am a die-hard Spartan fan. Steven sounds like a true Sparty and a great guy. All of you who knew him were very fortunate that your paths crossed. In particular, Katye, Steven is your Guardian Angel, always at your side.
I have one request of Steven, work your “Magic” from heaven above for our men’s ‘21-‘22 Men’s basketball season! Go Green! Go White!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteven was more than just a landlord, he was a leader, a lover, a true fighter (wrestler), the life of the party, smart, successful, and most of all, a friend! I never met a brighter and more caring human. He made me feel so at home whether it was introducing me to Bedra, Westman, Lettie, Gauthier and friends or nights out in Broad Ripple. Thanks to him I learned to love Indy, golf, Michigan state, drinking games, and can jam. I will remember Steven always as a happy grilling man who loved to have a beer with me and throw the frisbee or football. I truly love you man and regret missing your wedding. You were a true leader and mentor to look up to even though we were the same age. RIP TU.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Saxon. You were a great roommate and friend to Steven. From family dinners to tossing the football around, he always enjoyed his time with you.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleKatye, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine what you are going through & it tears up my heart. I am glad your family is close & please let their love guide you through this horrible time. Hopefully your faith will also guide you to a place of acceptance and love.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you Susie, I appreciate your kind words.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleWe are very sorry for your loss. Just know you and your families are in our thoughts and prayers. Andy and Debbie Stoffregen
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you Andy and Debbie, I appreciate it.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleMy deepest condolences to Tuyo family.
Getting to know Steve since he was a little boy was such a joy. We will always remember his funny and charismatic personality.
I will never forget when charming little Steve danced with all the ladies in my quinceañera back in Mexico when he was like 10 years old…his smile was contagious!
We have good memories of him and he will be missed.
The montoya family is here for you guys and we will continue keeping you in our prayers.
God bless.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you Georgina for your kind words. He loved to dance and was quite the charmer even from a young age I’m sure!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleDear Katye and the Tuyo family,
On behalf of the Evans Scholars Foundation, I want to express my deepest sympathies to you and the family. Since hearing of the difficult news, I have been thinking about Steven and the wonderful joy he brought to those that he surrounded himself with over the years. I first got the pleasure of knowing Steve as an Evans Scholar at Michigan State while I was on staff at the WGA/ESF. And you don’t forget people like him – he was always so kind to me upon my arrival to the MSU Scholarship House and usually the first to ask if I needed anything while I visited his fellow Scholars in East Lansing. Smart, caring, funny and – gosh – that smile that put everyone as ease. After graduation, and once he was settled in Indianapolis, I just knew that this guy was going places and thrilled about his journey ahead of him.
May the good memories and joy that he gave to all of us help you get through these difficult days.
Go Green,
Brian Shell (Evans Scholars Foundation)
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Facebook Twitter GoogleThank you for your kind words Brian. He loved the Evans Scholars and MSU and the outpouring of support from all of the scholars has made that even more evident.
Go White!
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Facebook Twitter GoogleSteven Tuyo will always be remembered. Was such a joy seeing on the wrestling mat, even as rival competitors we managed to have a great relationship through ourselves and our peers in the Livonia schools community. Our record against each other remains 1-1. I’ll see you in heaven for that rematch my friend. Rest easy, my prayers and condolences go out to your family and friends. Never forgotten, always remembered, love you Steve.
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Facebook Twitter GoogleDear Mrs Tuyo,
I was stunned yesterday to hear about the loss of your husband Steve. I was friends of his mother Kathie for many years; we were pen pals when I was in Vietnam and later spoke often on Facebook. I never met your husband, but his mother (on Facebook) was always bragging on his high school wrestling and other things. After her death, I lost touch with her family and was looking on Google to see when she had passed away and that is when I found out about Steve. l know it’s been over a year, but I also know that grieving is not a simple process. He was a lively young man who had a passion for life. l offer my deepest condolences to you and all the Tuyo family.
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