Cletus L. "Dan" Stegg

Cletus "Dan" L. Stegg, 91, of Santa Clara, passed away peacefully at home on March 9, 2026.

Dan was born on September 5, 1934, in Adrian, Michigan, the fifth of six children born to Elmer Henry Stegg and Selma Maria Carlson Stegg. In December 1951, he enlisted in the United States Air Force in Detroit, Michigan, completing his basic training at Camp Polk, Louisiana. He was then stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. During the Korean War era, he served a tour in Europe. Upon returning to Tucson, he met Helen Janet Pulliam. The two were married in Deming, New Mexico, on February 5, 1955. Dan was honorably discharged from the Air Force in December 1955. The couple settled in Grant County, New Mexico, where they raised three children and shared 50 years of marriage until Helen's passing in April 2005. Dan later married Linda Middlebrook on September 30, 2006.

Dan worked with Clifton Chevrolet in Silver City, New Mexico, from January 1956 to November 1958. He then began a long and dedicated career at the Kennecott Copper Mine in Santa Rita (now Freeport-McMoRan Inc.). He began working there on November 28, 1958, starting as a shovel mechanic before later transitioning to a crane operator. After nearly four decades of service, he retired on February 28, 1997.

Dan enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved dancing to Western music, fishing, and cheering on his beloved Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers. One of his greatest joys was being involved in-and proudly watching-his children and grandchildren participate in sports.

He also enjoyed gardening, RVing, bowling, and spending time playing cards with his dear friends, Jack and Wilma Tapscott.

A highlight of Dan's bowling career came on March 26, 2010, when he bowled a perfect game of 300-an achievement requiring twelve consecutive strikes and a remarkable combination of precision, consistency, and focus. Dan approached life with the same dedication he brought to the bowling lanes.

Above all, Dan was known for his tender heart and devotion to family and friends. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and took great pride in his six grandchildren.

Dan is survived by his wife, Linda Middlebrook of Santa Clara; and his children: Johnny A. Stegg and wife Vickie of Greenleaf, Kansas; Brenda A. Stegg Dominguez and husband Ray of Gila, New Mexico; and Michael P. Stegg and wife Valerie of Rio Rico, Arizona.

Five grandchildren also survive him: Scott Stegg and wife Kristi of Ankeny, Iowa; Kevin Stegg of Fargo, North Dakota; Dayna R. Dominguez of Albuquerque, New Mexico; Gwen R. Dominguez of Safford, Arizona; Samuel D. Stegg and Lexi of Phoenix, Arizona.

Additionally, he is survived by five great-grandchildren: Kara, Kian, and Alora Stegg of Iowa. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Barbara Pulliam Wallace of Pueblo, Colorado.

Dan was preceded in death by his first wife, Helen; his parents; his brothers, Leo, Ralph, and Paul Stegg; his sisters, Teresa Wedmer and Glory Dazey; as well as numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. Dan's remains will be laid to rest beside the same rose bush that Helen J. Pulliam Stegg's remains were placed in the Rose Garden at Memory Lane Cemetery. A memorial service will be held in May; the specific date is yet to be determined.

Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.