Stefano Francesco Agate died Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at the age of 51.

Steve was born February 16, 1971, in Lynwood, California to Nicolo and Caterina Agate.  He was raised and educated in Lompoc, graduating from La Purisima Catholic School and Cabrillo High School, where he excelled in wrestling and football.  He later attended Cuesta College.

Steve was a cook for many years in his family's restaurant in Lompoc and was known for his many innovations in the kitchen.

From an early age, Steve aspired to honor his Lord.  Like the Christian saints, he served his fellow man as a faithful and humble servant, living for others, feeding the needy, and spreading the love of God to the people around him and the ones he loved.  Although he had a difficult life with many challenges, Steve never thought of himself as a victim, but always as a victor.  He knew that faith could take a toll but just having faith gives you control.

Steve is survived by his parents, his sisters Francesca Figuereo and Marlena Agate, both of Lompoc, his nephews Joshua, Paul, Jordan, Amayzing, and Marcus, his great-nephew Luca Nicolo, and his "brothers-in-love" Ryne and Jeff.  As a son, Steve was honorable and loyal to his parents.  As a brother, he gave love and guidance.  He was loved and respected by all his extended family in Chicago and Italy.

A close family friend described Steve as having "the gift of goodness, love, and joy.  He was such a good person with a beautiful soul.  He's free now to rest in peace and live with his maker forever.  He will be forever remembered and forever loved."

The visitation will be Saturday, April 16, from 9-10 am, followed by a prayer service led by Deacon Paul Nicastro in the chapel of the Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.  Steve will be laid to rest in the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.