Stephen James Bustillos

Rosary: 10:00 am

Mass: 10:45am

Internment at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Rosemead immediately after.

Reception to follow

Stephen James Bustillos passed away May 3, 2023 at 11:15am in his home in the loving company of his brother Frederick Bustillos and nephew Michael Bustillos. Stephen bravely battled colon cancer for two years.

Stephen was born in Los Angeles California on August 31, 1945 to proud parents, Sgt. Alfred, and Raphlita Bustillos. Stephen was raised Catholic, and attended All Saints Catholic School in El Sereno. Upon graduating, he attended Cathedral High School where he played football and attended high standard college courses.

The summer of his junior year, he was recruited by Vic Cussia of Wilson High School to play football as a running back. After graduation, he was accepted to Washington University. Where he remained for only one year, as he did not like the wet weather. He came back to Los Angeles, again recruited by his mentor Vic Cussia to play at East Los Angeles College as a fullback. He studied hard and received excellent grades. After two years of playing football he was accepted at Whittier College where he played for two years, before transferring to Cal State Los Angeles where he eventually graduated with a Masters Degree in Sociology.

He went to work as a correctional officer at Waysides Honor Farm for Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Working there was a big eye opener for him as he ran into a lot of people who he grew up and played football with. He felt at odds with his success and their imprisonment so after 3 years, he decided to leave the Sheriff's Department. As he searched for his next endeavor, he went to work for the city of Los Angeles community relations department. Later he went into the Armed Forces and served in the active army reserve. Finally he returned to the city of Los Angeles as a Recreation Director. He promoted sports programs and parent participation to create a positive influence in sports and education, as well as being promoted to management of various districts. He was cited by Richard Nixon for promoting education, and sports in his program. Upon his retirement he still mentored kids and adults. He loved fast cars and sports. He was always up to the latest on baseball and football. While working on various sports programs, he became friends of Don Drysdale and Muhommad Ali.

He is survived by brothers Frederick and Dr Terrence Bustillos, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. Stephen was an incredible person who helped a lot of people young and old. He will surely be missed for his good deeds and positive image.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude research Foundation and City of Hope.