John "Steve" Watford

John Stephen “Steve” Watford, age 68 of Mishawaka, passed away with his family by his side on Friday, February 2, 2024.  Steve was born July 12, 1955, in LaPorte, Indiana, to the late John Henry and Irene Frances (Winborne) Watford. His family relocated to Mishawaka where Steve grew up and later graduated from Mishawaka High School, class of 1973.  While in High School, Steve met Lisa Borders and they married at Willow Creek United Methodist Church on December 14, 1974.  Steve and Lisa were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with family and friends.

Steve is survived by his wife Lisa Watford and their children Jeremy (Mindy) Watford and Jessica (Steve) Quick, five grandchildren: Emma, Jordan and Ella Watford, Bruce (Emily) Quick, and Luke Quick, all of Mishawaka.  Surviving as well are his sisters, Sandy Wills of South Carolina and Tina (Randy) Powell of Howe, Indiana.  Steve was preceded in death by his sister, Kathy Watford.

Visitation will be held from 4-7pm Thursday, February 8, 2024, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola, followed by a celebration of life service at 7pm.

From the age of 12, Steve began working with his father in his steel fabrication shop.  He later opened his own shop, Avenue Industries, in Osceola where he served his clients with quality products, honor and integrity.  These values helped Steve build a thriving business for over 30 years and he passed that work ethic and value onto his family as they took over the day-to-day operations as he neared retirement.

Steve was a man of many talents, and he left a lasting impression on the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He had an incredible knack for fixing nearly anything, and his love for maintaining a lush green lawn was evident to everyone who visited his home. Steve refurbished the original garage at his home built in 1932 into a small little house for his grandchildren to hang out with their friends.  He took a lot of pride in this project and was always very happy when the grandchildren would come over and hang out.

In retirement, Steve wanted to spend more time with his grandchildren.  He loved motorcycles, snowmobiles, and owned classic cars.  He was also meticulous about his trucks.  Many mornings, Steve enjoyed having breakfast at the OC Cafe, McAdoo's, and Tradewinds with his friends.  He was also very health conscious and loved to work out and lead a healthy lifestyle.

Above all, Steve was a devoted and supportive husband, father, and grandfather. His love for his family was evident in every action, and the memories created together will forever be cherished. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we also celebrate the life Steve led, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and memories for generations to come.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of his life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.