Steven Michael Goethals

Steven Michael Goethals was born Dec. 15, 1963, in Tacoma, Washington. He grew up in Sedro-Woolley and graduated from high school there in 1983. He died Dec. 19, 2025, in Marysville, Washington, at age 62.

Steve was playful, likable, and full of personality. As a boy and teenager, he often had a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. He was athletic, loved playing basketball, and enjoyed riding his motorcycle. He made friends easily and was well-liked by many.

Steve's early adulthood was shaped by family responsibility. His father, Ron, was training him to become a commercial baker at the family-owned Sedro-Woolley Bakery. When Ron died in 1981, Steve had just turned 18. He paused his high school education to work at the bakery, helping support his family until a full-time baker could be hired. Steve completed his diploma a year later than planned, a quiet example of his loyalty and work ethic.

At age 20, Steve's life changed forever. While riding his motorcycle in Seattle, a vehicle driven by an underage driver pulled out in front of him. The collision caused a traumatic brain injury and lasting physical and cognitive injuries. From that point forward, Steve required 24-hour care.

Despite challenges, Steve lived a good life. He was funny and generally maintained a positive attitude. He was known for a familiar twinkle of mischief and for telling harmless fibs, often laughing and confessing with his trademark line, "I'm full of beans."

Steve lived in an adult family home in Birch Bay, Washington, for nearly 20 years before moving to an adult family home in Marysville, Washington, in November 2021. He was loved by his family, his caregivers, and the many people who supported him over the years. He had a way of charming the people he met, including the hairstylist who cut his hair and the counselor who frequently brought him snacks.

Following his accident, Steve's mother, Jacqueline Laughlin, served as his legal guardian for decades. In 2021, his sister, Patricia Rowlson, assumed those responsibilities. Both were strong advocates for Steve throughout his life.

Steve's life reflected both loss and resilience. After his motorcycle accident, he faced lifelong challenges, but he continued to find joy in simple things such as craft activities and watching 1980s music videos on YouTube.

Through Steve, his family learned empathy, perspective, and how to make the best of any circumstance. His life was a lesson in perseverance, humor, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Saron Adult Family Home for their kindness and compassion, which were greatly appreciated. They created a space where Steve felt safe, loved, and valued, and their care brought comfort and peace to both Steve and his family.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Jules Goethals, and his sister, Linda Jean Goethals.

He is survived by his mother, Jacqueline Diane Laughlin of Bellingham, Washington; his sister, Patricia Ann Rowlson of Bellingham; his niece, Kelsey Nicole Haynes; his nephew, Branden Michael Rowlson; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A private gathering will be held in the new year. Steve will be interred alongside his father at Union Cemetery in Sedro-Woolley.