Stephen Fangio

Stephen Fangio, 55, of Wildrose Street, Carlsbad, NM, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2014 at his home. There will be no visitation, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service is scheduled for Saturday, January 11, 2014, 2:00 PM, at Denton-Wood Funeral Home Chapel with Kurt Simmons officiating. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Stephen Fangio was born February 23, 1958 in Ft. Worth, TX to Bill and Judy (Melson) Fangio. He grew up in Plano, Texas as the third child of four siblings. At an early age, he had a passion for cars, motorcycles, and soccer. Stephen was always in a positive mood, he loved to make people laugh. Stephen was highly accomplished in many areas including machine work, mechanical engineering and design, and drafting. He enjoyed rebuilding airplanes and cars, especially 1969 Roadrunners. He obtained his pilot license in his 30s and enjoyed flying. After losing his leg in a tragic auto accident at the young age of 22, Stephen focused on improving his golf game. He became passionate about the sport. In spite of having only one leg, Stephen was an accomplished golfer. He played in many tournaments in Arizona, Texas, Hawaii and several other states. He longed to compete in the USGA Seniors Tour. Stephen was exposed to charitable work through his golf tournaments and began to speak to groups such as Wounded Warriors and other organizations to inspire them to go beyond their perceived limitations. Stephen's life exemplified the belief that our imaginations are our only limits. Stephen delighted in joking with people, loved his children and family dearly, and was happy to find love later in life. It was most unfortunate that he was only able to have one year with her before he passed on to be with our Lord. Survivors are his wife, Liz Fangio of Carlsbad, NM; daughter, Danielle Graziano; sons: Matthew Fangio, Tyler Fangio; stepdaughter, Denay Kirby; stepsons: Michael Kirby, Christopher Kirby; grandson, Davin Graziano; parents, Bill and Judy Fangio of Carlsbad, NM; sisters: Jeanna Adamo and husband, Mark, Ann Fangio; brother, Mark Fangio and wife, Lorie and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.