Denton Steen

Denton Elijah Steen, born July 21, 2001, and raised in Moxee, Washington, was 24 years old and living in Selah at the time he went to be with the One True King on Saturday, November 15th, passing unexpectedly and far too soon.
What made Denton truly Denton was the joy, curiosity, and creativity he carried into every part of life. He was a collector of many things-guitars, bass guitars, Star Wars, Ninja Turtles, Transformers, and Toy Story figurines-each one representing something that made him smile. He had a gentle, quick sense of humor and a soft, contagious laugh that could warm a room without ever being loud. He was a true dog whisperer-dogs seemed to recognize a friend in him instantly and loved playing with him as much as he loved playing with them. He also had a way of making people feel seen, especially those who often felt overlooked.
Denton was also a devoted sports fan-one who loved the thrill, the energy, and the loyalty of cheering for his teams. He especially loved following Philadelphia sports, whether it was the Flyers on the ice, the Phillies on the field, or the Eagles under the stadium lights. He never wanted to miss a game.. Those who knew him could count on hearing his cheers, his commentary, and his passionate reactions-good or bad-depending on how the game was going. For Denton, watching sports wasn't just a hobby; it was a ritual that brought him joy and something he loved.
A remarkably gifted, self-taught musician, Denton could pick up almost any instrument and play it with a natural ease that amazed everyone around him. He was rarely seen without a guitar pick tucked into his pocket, always ready for the moment music might be needed. His confidence grew whenever he stepped into worship, whether on guitar, bass, or drums. He served faithfully on worship teams at Heights Church and Stone Church, sharing his musical gifts with humility and love.
Denton's creativity extended far beyond music. He served on the media teams with equal dedication-designing graphics, running cameras, and helping ensure every service flowed seamlessly. He loved photography and took pride in teaching youth students how to operate cameras, guiding them patiently and celebrating their progress. His artistic expression continued through creating his own original songs, where he poured out his love for music and creativity.
More than anything he did, it was the way he served that defined him. Denton was the one who stayed late, cleaned up quietly, and made sure everyone else was taken care of before himself. His friendships were deep and meaningful, built through years of shared ministry, laughter, service, and kindness. Above all, the best way to describe Denton is "the perfect servant," as there was never a time he wasn't giving of himself-whether to his church, his friends, or his family both inside and outside the walls of the church.
Denton was preceded in death by his grandfather, William (Bill) King of Yakima; and his great-grandparents, John and Helen Barns of Wapato, Antonia Renfrow of Yakima, and Wenzell and Margaret King of Yakima.
He is survived by his parents, Eric and Gina Steen of Selah; his siblings, Phillip Steen of Selah and Corbin and Jayme (Steen) Reiland of Moxee; and his grandparents, Willamae King of Yakima, and Nancy and Roland Shanks of Walla Walla as well as Aunts, Uncles, and cousins throughout the state of Washington.. He is also deeply missed by many friends who became family.
A Celebration Of Denton's Life will be held Saturday, December 13th at 11:00 a.m. at Stone Church in Yakima, where all who loved him are invited to gather, remember, and worship together in his honor.
Brookside Funeral Home & Crematory is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at brooksidefuneral.com.