Steven Francis Luhtala

Steve “Gravel” Luhtala

“It’s Raining in Tacoma”

There’ll never be another like him. A Fife High School standout in baseball, football, and wrestling, Gravel was a fierce competitor, a loyal friend, and a man with a bigger-than-life heart. He kept playing for decades with The Haven, Heidelberg, Palmer Construction, West Coast Awards, and Scoreboard Pub slow-pitch teams—rain or shine, glove in hand, always ready for one more inning and one more story (maybe one more beer).

Down at the water, he found his second family. A long-time member of the Longshoremen’s Union Local #23, Gravel took pride in honest work and the brotherhood of the Port of Tacoma—shifts shared, stories swapped, promises kept.

Above all, he loved his “Doll,” Gayle. Through every high and hardship, they stood side by side. Even through long health battles, he never stopped showing up—and when Gayle was back on stage with her tambourine, he was right there beside her, grinning ear to ear. Gravel had a way of making everyone feel like family—a quiet protector, a straight shooter, and a man who meant what he said.

Survived by: his daughter, Tehra Luhtala; grandson, Jayden Atofau; brother, Dan Luhtala (and nephew, Daniel “Danny” Luhtala Jr.); sister, Lynda (Bill) McLean; niece, Shannon (Roger); nephew, Lonny (April); grand-nephews, Austin, Dayton, and Brady; and grand-niece, Reese.

Preceded in death by: his beloved wife, Gayle; parents, Franny and Wanda Luhtala; and daughter, Nicole.

Celebration of Life

Sunday, November 16, 2025 1:00-5:00pm

Emerald Queen Casino — I-5 Conference Center

Fife, Washington

In lieu of flowers, please honor Gravel by showing kindness to someone today—or by cheering a little louder for someone you love.

Rest easy, Gravel. It’s raining in Tacoma, and the world feels the loss.