Stephen Joseph Stafford
was born on October 4, 1961 in Lansing Michigan, the son of the late Evon Farhat and Horace Gilbert Stafford. On February 6, 2013, Steve passed away in an aircraft accident in Casa Grande, Arizona. He is survived by his best friend and fiancé, Sandra J. Komula; daughter, Sarah E. Stafford; sister and brother-in-law, Cynthia Stafford Lowe and Todd Lowe; nieces, Stephanie and Kimberly Lowe; half siblings, William (Nancy) Katon, Martin Katon; numerous cousins and his former wife, Debra Stafford Saxton. Steve grew up in Charlotte, Michigan and graduated from Charlotte High School 1979. He later attended Lansing Community College. As a teen, he attended the National Music Camp at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan. Steve was a pilot for most of his life, soloing at 16 and earning his pilot's license at 17. He continued to excel, adding many ratings and licenses. He became a commercial pilot and a flight instructor, eventually teaching more than 600 students. In the early 1980's he moved to the Tucson area, continuing his aviation career. Most recently he was the co-manager of Tucson Aeroservice Center Inc. and sales department manager. In addition to aviation, Steve loved to fish, ski, hike and ride motorcycles. Most of all, his life was centered on his three loves - Sarah, Sandy and Sedona, his golden retriever. He was a "best and loyal friend" to many; he will be missed. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, March 23, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at Tucson Aeroservice Center, Inc., 11700 W. Avra Valley Rd., Marana, AZ 85653. In lieu of flowers and with respect for Steve's passion for the gift of flight, please consider a contribution to the Wright Flight, Inc., 7075 S. Plumer Ave., Suite 14, Tucson, AZ 85756 or www.wrightflight. org. Additionally, the family is collecting a book of stories and pictures about Steve's life. We ask anyone who knew Steve to send your memories to skomula@gmail.com, or bring them to the memorial service. An electronic version of the finished product will be available upon request. Arrangements by HUDGEL'S SWAN FUNERAL HOME.
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