Stephen Saluskin

Yakima – Stephen Anthony Saluskin (K’u-lul-k’in) a Tribal Fisherman, favorite uncle, brother and friend, left this world Thursday of heart failure in Yakima WA, May 31, 2018. Stephen is survived by his two brothers, Ronald Saluskin and Brian Saluskin, and sister, Julie Saluskin. He is preceded in death by his father, Rudolph Saluskin, mother, Gladys Sheoships Saluskin, his brothers Rudolph Saluskin Jr., Stewart Saluskin, and sister, Sandra Saluskin.He lived and died on his terms, he had peace with his surroundings and made some great choices in the end. His passing was well before anyone wanted him to, he was 58 years old. Stephen was born in Toppenish in 1960. “Steve” is what everyone called him was very rambunctious individual, strong willed for sure and hard-headed. Willing to try anything once but was always getting hurt in the process. Steve spent all of his time fishing with family and traveling up and down the Columbia River. As a boy, he enjoyed playing all sports. He played basketball for his father’s team the Lil Devils of Toppenish Community Center. He loved the physicality of football in which he excelled. He was an All-Valley Catcher for Top-Hi Wildcats where he would later graduate from in 1978. Steve traveled to many Pow Wow’s with his Grandmother Ellen Hoptenix Saluskin, as a youth and was a Championship Fancy Dancer. He liked spending time with family and friends during Treaty Days and all holidays. Steve was always with his brother, Brian, playing in softball tournaments until knee replacement surgery and health problems limited his softball abilities. Steve loved playing and watching his nieces and nephews play basketball. He even caught a few trips to Pendleton, OR and Mariner games in Seattle. He was seen at Legends Casino regularly trying his luck. Uncle Steve loved life and lived it the best way he knew how. He will always be remembered for his courage and sense of humor. Dressing services for Stephen will be held Saturday June 02, 2018, 2:00 PM at Zillah Funeral Home. He will then be transferred to Toppenish Community Center for Services. His body will rest there until his burial at McCoy Cemetery Monday June 4th at 8:00 AM with reception and dinner to follow back at TCC. Flowers and donations can be sent to Valley Hill Funeral Home, 607 2nd Ave. Zillah, WA 98953. Few were happier to be alive than he. Indeed, few were more alive. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Stephen Saluskin, please visit our flower store.