Editor’s Note: Long time Santa Ana resident Steve McGuigan passed away on Sunday after a long battle with cancer. He is mourned by many. I’ve asked my friend Tish Leon to offer her thoughts on Steve’s life for our readers.
Tish writes:
Who was Steve McGuigan? Besides being a friend and a true believer of how great the City of Santa Ana is, he was much more than that to so many. Steve passed away this last Sunday evening, October 16th, after a long and very courageous battle with cancer.
Steve was so unselfish in his efforts to make our community safe, entertaining, and vibrant.
He was always positive, good-natured and respectful.
When I think of him I remember him always smiling and greeted me, as if he was just waiting for me to appear.
His love of music spread from being a DJ at many city events, to being instrumental in the planning and execution of various Zoo events including the Zoo Birthday, Sunsets at the Zoo, Boo at the Zoo, Holidays with the Critters, and Zoofari. When I think of the Zoo, it is synonymous with Steve! I was always amazed at the amount of energy he had to contribute countless hours to the Zoo.
Steve was a familiar figure at the ComLink meetings, city festivals, parades, Westend activities and the list goes on and on.
Steve will be incredibly missed not just because of his volunteer work, but of his beautiful soul and passion for doing the right thing.
My heart is sadden with this loss, my prayers and condolences to everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him
Steve may you continue to rock on in heaven…RIP in my friend.
Very nice Tish – thank you.
Steve will be missed by many.
Well said, Tish.
I had the pleasure of knowing Steve. Steve McGuigan was a person who truly cared about Santa Ana, especially the Zoo. His dedication to the Santa Ana Zoo is unrivaled. I will remember the discussions we had on potential exhibits and future animals. He will be missed.