Obituary of Stephen Albert Dunlap
Stephen "Steve" Albert Dunlap, aged 71, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2023, at his home in Everett, WA, after a long and courageous battle with colon cancer. He was born on July 6, 1952, in Norfolk, VA, to John and Adeline (Miller) Dunlap. He was a proud resident of Everett, WA. He attended Bishop Blanchet High School in Seattle. He met his wife Deborah "Faye" Young when she reported to Everett, Washington for military duty in 1999. He and Faye were married on July 13, 2002, in Snohomish, WA. Steve was a retired truck driver, previously employed with G. I. Trucking and Estes Trucking. His career as a truck driver lasted over twenty years. He enjoyed meeting people and his favorite time as a driver were dedicated routes to Vancouver, Canada or Portland, Oregon. Steve had wonderful problem solving and communication skills that contributed to his success and respect as a driver.
Steve was outgoing and loved exploring the outdoors. Steve and Faye would often camp at Jim Creek, northeast of Arlington, WA and became a part of the family. He also enjoyed going on adventures and traveling the Pacific Northwest. Some of his favorite places were Port Townsend, WA and Victoria, BC. He traveled yearly until he became sick in 2016. His family, travel, drag racing and the arts were a few of his biggest passions.
Steve was such an avid drag racing enthusiast to include top fuel, streetcars, funny cars and alike. He would travel to many contests/shows over the years throughout western Washington to include the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) Northwest Nationals Event at Pacific Raceways, Puyallup, WA. He met a friend who became his roadshow buddy, and they would often meet at the track in Monroe, WA. Steve would eventually enter amateur races at the track in Monroe, WA and he won a few trophies.
Steve was a self-taught artist. He had a beautiful eye for design, especially Christmas trees. Christmas was his favorite time of the year. He prided himself on gifting Christmas experiences. He and Faye would host yearly house gatherings at Christmas time. His tree was the star of the show. He was so well known for his trees, many thought he could do this professionally. His trees were his gift to others and payment would have stymied his creativity and zest for doing so. He wrote short stories and published a book of poetry. He also drew portraits occasionally and played bass guitar (as well as collected them). One of his dreams was to write and record an original song to share with family and friends at Christmas time.
Steve was a loving, faithful and loyal husband, companion, friend and sibling. He was an encourager of dreams. He valued his family and friendships very much. He was also an avid gardener and history buff. He was not adverse to a good prank or hearty joke, he loved to laugh. He not only had a great sense of humor, he could and would often laugh at himself. He would even make fun or light of his suffering. Steve had a beautiful, rich and soulful voice and was great at reading aloud and conversation. He was well versed on many subjects. Steve had strong opinions, however, he was always open and willing to listen to the other side of the story. He loved a good debate.
Steve had the ability to make anyone smile. He never met a stranger. Steve was proceeded in death by his parents, John and Adeline Dunlap. He is survived by his wife, Faye; siblings: Michael (Cheryle) and Mark (Clarissa) Dunlap, Mary (Paul) Pipes and Joan (Joseph) Seivold; aunt Arlene Betzing, many nieces, nephews, and cousins to cherish his memory. Steve, you are loved, you are missed and will never be forgotten. Continue laughing and playing music in heaven. Christmas will never be the same without you. Family, friends and others are invited to the Edmonds Waterfront Center, 220 Railroad Avenue, Edmonds, WA 98020 from 3pm to 5pm on December 9, 2023 for Stephen Dunlap's Celebration of Life Christmas Party.
