SETKA, Steve

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Az. Friday, October 25, 2013 Steve Setka Sr., 99, of Phoenix, passed away on October 21, 2013, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Globe, Arizona on March 18, 1914 to Andrew and Kata Setka. He spent his early years in Globe where his father was a miner. The Setka family later moved to Wheatfields, Arizona outside of Globe. Steve attended Wheatfields School and Globe High School. While at Globe High School he played football, basketball, and ran track for the "Tigers". Steve received a scholarship to Arizona State Teacher College (Now ASU). While at ASTC he lettered three years in football and received a "lifetime pass' for sporting events, which he enjoyed for all these years since 1938. At the September 5th, 2013 game Steve was honored as the oldest living ASU football player. Steve's 46-year teaching career started in 1938 in Payson. His career included teaching positions in Buckeye, Poston, Gilbert, Chino Valley, and Phoenix. He taught for 32 years in the Creighton School District retiring in 1984 at age 70. After retiring, Steve enjoyed attending ASU, SUNS and Rattler's games. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play high school sports. The love and devotion for his family kept him young at heart. Steve always had a bright smile and a twinkle in his eye with the hope of finding that GOLD. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife June, son Andrew, and daughter-in-law Germaine. Steve married the love of his life June Wilbanks in 1940 in Payson, Arizona. They were blessed with six children. He is survived by his son Steve Jr. daughters Deanna, Suellen (Raymond) Berry, Della (Clarence) Howard, Kathy and sister Katie Baskett. 8 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donate to your local school or youth sports organization. Services will be Sunday October 27, 2013. Visitation is at 10:00 AM, and funeral services at 11:00 AM at A.L Moore Grimshaw Mortuary 710 West Bethany Home Road.