Stephen Duane Shelton
July 8, 1927 - May 10, 2025

Stephen Duane Shelton, 97, from Mercer Island, Washington passed away peacefully on May 10, 2025. He was born on July 8, 1927, in Corvallis, Oregon, the fourth of six children. He attended the University of Idaho earning a BS degree in Business and a graduate degree in Accounting Practices.

He was in the Navy for less than a year following World War II and soon completed his university studies. While he had begun working for the accounting firm Arthur Andersen in Seattle he was drafted into the Army during the Korean conflict, serving stateside in the accounting area during his military service.

Steve's business career was varied, serving usually as a corporate financial officer and/or vice president in a series of corporations, including Electronics Specialty, Craig Corporation, SSP Industries, JBL Audio Electronics, and Alaska Diesel, among others. He was married three times, fathered five children, and indulged in his love of basketball and tennis. Blessed with a gifted singing voice and piano talent, Steve continued his musical avocation in his adult years by singing in various chorale groups in Los Angeles and Seattle, joining their choir tours throughout Europe and Asia during his vacation time. His favorite chorale group was The Esoterics and he made many lasting friendships there. Steve's personal travels took him to varied, exotic and historical places where he immersed himself in the culture and history of wherever he visited. He was an avid reader, a writer of books on Twentieth Century music and business, and monthly family letters that continued well into his 90s.

During his later years living at the retirement community Aljoya on Mercer Island, Steve enjoyed singing from his balcony and performing for family and friends. He was happily married to his beloved wife Karen Harvey for over 30 years, with whom he shared his love of music and travel. He is survived by his wife, two younger sisters, five children, nine grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Steve had a wonderful and fulfilling life, and he will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Tributes