Jeffrey Charles Stephens

Obituary JEFFREY CHARLES STEPHENS "Tally Ho" Jeffrey Charles Stephens, a lifelong resident of Tacoma, passed away on January 14, 2010. Jeff fought a long, valiant, and spirited struggle against pancreatic cancer. He waged the battle on his own terms, never giving up hope, never giving in to self-pity, and always serving as an inspiration to his loved ones. Jeff was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Margaret Norton Stephens. He was a loving and caring father to his daughter, Jennifer Putnam (husband Brandon), of Gig Harbor. He was an adored and beloved Papa to his three grandchildren, Breonna Rose, Austin Atkins, and Connor Atkins, all of Gig Harbor. Jeff is also survived by three brothers, John (wife Jane) of La Conner; Jimmy (wife Diana) of Tacoma; and Bill (wife Leslie Birnbaum) of Tacoma; a sister, Jeannie Grable (husband Harry) of Maple Valley; and many nieces and nephews. Jeff was born on October 28, 1956, to Harold and Margaret Stephens, both of whom preceded Jeff in death. Jeff attended St. Patrick Elementary School, Charles Wright Academy, and Bellarmine Preparatory School. After high school, Jeff began a career at The News Tribune that lasted for more than 30 years as a press operator and in supervisory positions. Jeff thoroughly enjoyed the newspaper business and was meticulous about his work. He was a craftsman in the pressroom, attempting to ensure that the paper looked its best every day. Jeff made many enduring friendships at the Tribune, including the many colleagues who would join him over the years at Cloverleaf Pizza for lunch. Jeff and Maggie were married in Lake Tahoe. They enjoyed visiting the Reno and Tahoe area on occasion, especially on significant wedding anniversaries. Jeff and Maggie were able to make a final visit to the area earlier this month so they could again see the spot where they were married in 1986. Along with spending time with Maggie and Jennifer, Jeff cherished his grandchildren and enjoyed spoiling them, whether it be goofing off around the house, camping, fishing, or watching them play sports. Jeff was well known for his array of homemade holiday cookies and candies, with family and friends looking forward to a variety of his treats each year. Jeff was an ardent fan of the Washington Huskies football team, holding season tickets for many years and enjoying tailgating with family and friends. Jeff's family and friends have a stadium-full of fond memories of Apple Cups, bowl games, and other Husky games. Jeff also enjoyed bowling, golf, family campouts, and trips to the ocean. The family offers special thanks to Dr. Clifford Porter and Dr. Thomas Baker for the kind and considerate care they provided to Jeff and for the understanding and compassion they offered to the family. A funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick Church in Tacoma on Saturday, January 23, at 10:00 a.m. The family suggests donations in Jeff's name be made to Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care (www.fhshealth.org) or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org). Gaffney Funeral Home (253-572-6003) is in charge. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com.