Obituary of Steve G. Turlis

Steve G. Turlis Born in Tacoma on March 22, 1921 as the first child of George and Vasiliki Turlis. Steve died on February 20, 2009 in the comforting arms of his devoted wife Katherine - the love of his life. Steve was a lifelong Tacoma resident who was known for his strong work ethic and his love for his family. At the age of 10, he helped support his family by selling newspapers on South Tacoma Way. He had a variety of jobs throughout his junior and high school years until he was drafted into the Army in WWII. Steve was a 101st Airborne Trooper who landed on Omaha Beach D-Day plus 2. He was severely wounded and received the Purple Heart. Steve returned from the War and on January 27, 1946 married Katherine Formuzis. Steve owned and operated a produce stand in Manning's Market. Later he went to work for Lucky Stores, as the produce manager. From there Steve owned and operated the Brittania Tavern on Pacific Avenue, where he gave many up and coming country singers their start. Real Estate was Steve's next venture. From residential he moved on to commercial which proved to be his niche. He successfully brought Fred Meyer Stores to Washington, Alaska and Idaho. Steve loved being outdoors. An avid gardener, his roses were his pride and joy. Fishing was his passion and he looked forward to his annual trip to Alaska with his "Harbor Lights Buddies". Family outings included razor clam digging and smelting at Kalaloch as well as annual trips to Maui with his family. Steve and Kay were world travelers and have many albums filled with memories of the countries they visited with close friends. When Steve retired in 1991, he spent a majority of his time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who he absolutely adored. One word could easily describe Steve, and that is sentimental. It was his loveliest trait. Steve was preceded in death by his precious grandson Patrick John O'Connell. He is survived by his wife Katherine, daughter Deanne, (Tim) O'Connell, and beloved grandchildren Elisabeth and Thomas O'Connell. Brothers Alex and Chris and sister Ethel as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. All who knew Steve will miss his disarming smile and sense of humor. We will treasure our memories of you Steve. Visitation will be from noon to 7:00pm on Tuesday, February 24 at Piper-Morley-Mellinger. Trisagion and Funeral Services Wednesday, February 25 at 11:00am St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. Remembrances may be made to MBCH Treehouse Project or Kids N Cancer at Camp Agape.