Steven “Steve” Robert Hughes, 72, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2026, after a long battle with Lewy body dementia with Parkinsonisms. Born on March 17, 1954, in Santa Barbara, California, Steve was raised in Port Hueneme, where he grew up, and later made his home in Ventura, California, where he built a life filled with family, love, and lasting memories.
Throughout his career, Steve worked for several companies, including Northrop Grumman, C.E. Miller, Precision Forge/Rockwell International, NuSil Technology, and DowKey Microwave. He retired from the California Air National Guard Base at Point Mugu in 2019.
Steve was kind, patient, and laid-back, with an unforgettable sense of humor and a remarkably quick wit— he always seemed to have the perfect comeback. He was deeply devoted to his family and was a fun, loving dad who always knew how to make his daughters laugh. Above all, Steve deeply loved his wife, Kathy. Their love was rare, unconditional, and unwavering. They were true soulmates who shared a deep bond and remained devoted to one another throughout their 40 years together. Married on July 15, 1989, they were inseparable and cherished the life they built side by side.
Steve is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughters Melissa Salinas (Ryan Capdeville), Robyn Hughes, and Stephanie Wolf; siblings Andy Hughes (Christy), Kathy Hughes, and Lisa Hughes; and many loving grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Robert “Bob” Hughes and Lillian “Kay” Hughes, and his sister, Pam Hughes.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the team at Kaiser Permanente, including Dr. Ryan Hansen, Dr. Angels Nguyen, and nurses Sancho, Julie, and Karina, as well as the Livingston Memorial Hospice Care team, including nurses Corinne, Cassandra, Dennis, and Basel, for their compassionate care and support. The family also sincerely thanks Kaity and Gabriel of Joseph P. Reardon Funeral Home for their kindness and assistance during this difficult time.
Steve will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the people he loved, the laughter he shared, and the unconditional love he and Kathy gave one another.
At Steve’s request, a small, private send-off will be held. A celebration of life will take place in the coming months by invitation only.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org or the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.