Maria Isabella “Izzy” Almazan Steele ~ Class of 2004
Arrived ~ July 24, 1985
Departed ~ February 2, 2019
Obituary
Maria Isabella Almazan Steele, 33, born on July 24, 1985, in Manila, Philippines, passed away February 2, 2019. She resided in Winnetka, California at the time of her passing.
Harold Albert lovingly wrote.
ISB Alum Writes:
Sorry to be quite tardy with this post, but we are so very sad to be reporting the passing of 2004 ISB graduate Maria Isabella (Izzy) Almazan Steele this past February 2 in Winnetka, California. Isabella was a beautiful and radiant young woman who is best remembered by the ISB community for her bubbly personality and her gorgeous and creative dancing. We send our sincere condolences to both the Almazan and Steele families. If you would like to sign the guest book on the Forest Lawn site, please follow this link:
https://obituaries.forestlawn.com/obituaries/maria-isabella-steele-1
Also attached you will find a video of the IASAS Dance Showcase performance from March of 2004 featuring all of the members of the IASAS Dance team directed by Ms. Kelly Wadlegger.
May she rest in peace.
When words are too difficult… some photos. Love you always Izzy.
SALMA SAKR
Mar 05, 2019
Numbers. We were freshmen taking a math class at Pepperdine University when we met. Izzy was so good with numbers she would often set the curve for the entire class. I still struggle to understand them. For example, Izzy wasnt my better half, she was my only half. Ours was not a fifty-fifty relationship, it was a hundred-hundred relationship. That doesnt make sense in mathematics. It makes sense only in matters of the heart. Izzy wholly looked out for me and I wholly looked out for her. Neither knew what we wanted to do or become, just that we wanted to do it together. Love defies numbers. We both sat in the front row. It was the only way Izzy could see the chalkboard. It was the only way I could see her. She was as beautiful as she was smart. I wondered, How could someone with so much going for her ever become my girlfriend?. So I decided to find out by getting to know Izzy during rides on the campus trolley. For the rest of freshman year we nurtured a friendship with no idea where it would lead. * * * * * During sophomore year we started dating. Our dorms were close together and we saw one another daily. In fact, Izzy and I became so much like a couple that a text from that year would become indistinguishable from one of this year. It would be impossible to tell which came first. As our relationship evolved we began to leave old worlds behind. That summer Izzy and I chose to stay on campus and take classes instead of going back to what each of us had called home. What they say about opposites attracting is true. Izzy had a privileged upbringing and was very cosmopolitan. Having been raised in a sleepy suburb of the Northwest, my upbringing was modest by comparison. Izzy was my entrée into Pepperdines vast international crowd. I lived in a pizza-and-poker dorm with buddies. She lived in Drescher Hall fully appointed apartments reserved for brainy types. Izzy was more than a foot shorter than me and weighed less than a hundred pounds. As we walked hand-in-hand she probably looked more like my lunch box than my girlfriend. Petite as she was, Izzy always had extra points on her cafeteria card. She gave me those points as if sneaking food to a starving puppy. Which brings me to the only thing we had back then besides each other: Cami! * * * * * We found our puppy online, during junior year. Cami was living in a sketchy part of downtown Los Angeles. I drove us there in my Dads hand-me-down truck because there were only two things Izzy was not great at. Only two. Driving and singing. (Oh, what I wouldnt give now to be in L.A. traffic sitting in the passengers seat listening to Izzy attempting her favorite Kelly Clarkson songs even without radio.) One of the things I learned from Izzy early on is that you dont just love someone because of their qualities. You also love them in spite of their flaws. Puppies arent usually allowed in dorms but Izzys love for Cami was infectious. The other brains at Drescher were as quick to accept little Cami as they had been in accepting little Izzy. Still, our relationship was outgrowing college faster than we were. By senior year it was time for the three of us to move off-campus. * * * * * Commuting to campus felt odd at first. What felt incredibly natural, though, was playing house. We shared chores. Izzy helped me with Spanish and I helped her edit video presentations. She and I made dinner together when we had money for groceries settled for Jack In The Boxs Value Menu when we did not. It was at this time the two of us discovered another key to a loving and enduring relationship. Putting the other person first. This would soon be tested. Graduation was merely a goal for three years. Now it was a fast-arriving circle on our kitchen calendar. While most seniors were choosing between entry-level jobs or grad school, Izzy and I had even bigger issues to consider. She was already getting offers from corporations. In many cases that meant leaving the state. Her student visa would expire shortly after graduation. That meant leaving the country. Separate lives were not an option for two people so deeply committed to one another. Casting fate to the wind, Izzy and I chose to remain in L.A. and pursue our braided dreams. After all, we were getting pretty good at playing house. Graduation brought our families together for the first time. It was on a Saturday and I started my career on Monday. Selfless as always, Izzy turned down several opportunities as not to disrupt my path. She also declined all offers necessitating extensive travel. Such sacrifices paid off as Izzy was soon able to chart her own trajectory as a financial analyst with a company close to home. * * * * * We got married somewhat quietly. There was no need for anything fancy because we already felt like husband and wife. We often joked about having a dog, a single bank account, me taking the trash out after dinner, and us going to bed early. Elderly couples would give us advice and we would always nod politely. Inside, though, we giggled, thinking, Thanks, but we already knew that. Careers were demanding and the rewards, satisfying. We bought a small house. Everything either of us achieved was a credit to the loving support we gave one another. The way it should be. Even disagreements were without ego never about winning or proving ones self. They were about realizing truth. I loved Izzys brainpower. * * * * * Now, looking in Lifes rear-view mirror, years easily blur. But it is a happy blur. The good thing about those long hours at our offices was that shared time always seemed precious. Time together never lost its sheen. People wonder why we kept the same jobs and the same house the whole time. The answer is simple. It allowed us to focus on family. Izzy had many families. Her immediate family. Extended family. International family. Izzys work family. My work family. College family. Gym family. Izzy did not have acquaintances. She had family. And, in all its forms, family always brought a smile to Izzys face. That smile. Her whole face smiled! We spent so many wonderful Holidays in Orange County with Izzys parents and her sisters family. Izzy loved her time with Mom and Dad. She was also very close with her sister and her sisters two girls. The kids made Auntie Izzy beam with joy. As I think of my wife a kaleidoscope of images come to mind. There was her love of year-round Christmas music. Healthy diets of documentaries and fresh vegetables offset by the occasional guilty pleasures of trash TV and chocolate. Feverishly working out at the gym where she was affectionately known as Mighty Mouse. Striking a gymnastics pose while glued to replays of Olympic coverage. Trying out a new culinary masterpiece plucked from a magazine. Or, wearing a t-shirt proclaiming, SHORT GIRLS: God Only Lets Things Grow Until Theyre Perfect. Then, underneath, in tiny print, Some Of Us Didnt Take As Long. I would like to share with you one of my final memories of Izzy. Not because it is easy. It is not. But because nothing better encapsulates the profound love and incalculable selflessness she possessed. It underscores how much we loved each other. When Izzy seemed beyond the medical staffs efforts and even my most desperate hope for a miracle as we neared those darkest of hours Izzy was offered the comfort of a Priest. She accepted. I sat next to her, cradling her hand, feeling the largest part of my own life slipping away. The Priest gave Last Rights and asked Izzy if he could do anything else for her. She replied, Yes. Please say a prayer for my husband, to give him the strength and courage to carry on. That selflessness defined Izzy. I still have so much more to learn from her. I will forever be inspired by what we could have become together and what she would have wanted for me. And I will never, ever stop loving Izzy even though all I am left with are memories. Those, no one can take from me. And no one can take Izzys remembrance from you. May you, too, forever treasure Izzy in your heart. Ours was an unfairly short story but it was purely a love story. Your love sustained Izzy as it sustains me. From a heart broken, I thank you for your Love. — Ash (husband)
ASH STEELE
Feb 25, 2019
This photo was taken after a dance performance at the International School of Bangkok in 2003. Isabella is in the front row 2nd from the right. I am also in the photo Im the middle male. Isabella was such a bubbly and positive person during class, rehearsals and performances. Not only that, but she was always be a great friend to talk to. This is such sad and terrible news to hear. My condolences to the Almazan and Steele family.
JAMES THOMAS
Feb 18, 2019
Dear Mr and Mrs AlmazanI am so incredibly sorry for the loss of your daughter Isabella. She was a beautiful radiant girl and it was a joy to have her as my dance student and work with her at ISB. She was a gorgeous and creative performer. Thinking of you all in this time of sorrow. My heart is aching with you all. With Sincerest CondolencesMs Kelly Wadlegger
KELLY WADLEGGER
Feb 15, 2019
Our dearest Ding and Wilma,We share with the great sorrow you are experiencing right now with the loss of Maria Isabella. Be comforted with the beautiful memories she left behind. Thinking of you and we pray you find peace and solace in knowing a lot of friends and family love you and grieve with you at this difficult time. May Maria Isabella Rest In Peace.❤Love always,Beth and Hermie Veneracion and Family
BETH AND HERMIE VENERACION
Feb 10, 2019
Izzy was an absolute inspiration and force for good in the world. She gave the absolute best hugs and you could always count on her to bring a fresh and positive perspective to any challenging situation. She radiated good vibes always, all ways. Izzy loved being a part of the solution whenever our group of friends had any problem or question about planning for the future, we could always count on her for sage advice! It’s only been a year since her passing and she continues to inspire me to dream and achieve big things in my life. We miss and love Izzy so much. Thank you for being you, Izzy, you are absolute magic.
VERONICA ESTRADA
Feb 04, 2020
I have fond memories of dance classes with Izzy at ISB. She was a beautiful dancer, and an all-around delightful person to be near. Her smile is probably what I remember most strongly about her because there was so much joy in it I could swear she was about to sprout wings and fly! I am very saddened to hear of her passing, and am wishing peace and comfort to her family and friends.
KIMBERLY (HENRY) DAVIS
Mar 14, 2019
NINA BELL
Mar 12, 2019
GRETCHEN CRUZ
Mar 09, 2019
IVY YU
Mar 06, 2019
Ash. My heart is broken. Both knowing that Izzy is no longer with us, as well as knowing that your love story was cut so short. I love you both and could not be more grateful for your love, friendship, and acceptance. You are my family and always will be. She will be so missed.
SHARON SHAPIRA
Mar 05, 2019
SALMA SAKR
Mar 05, 2019
At my brother’s wedding a few years ago, my daughter was past her nap time and starting to get grumpy…Izzy brought her pink lemonade and snuggled with her until it was time for the ceremony to start. I can’t tell you how much I appreciated her kindness and patience at the time! Just a tiny example of what an absolutely wonderful person she was. I’m so very sorry for your loss Ash…you’re both in my thoughts.
SANDRA EDDY
Mar 05, 2019
I met Izzy for a brief moment in time when I had the honor of being her ICU nurse when she was first admitted to the hospital. She and her husband Ash made an immediate impact on my life and in my practice. Often we ask why to the Universe and our Higher Power when such a beautiful and gentle soul is taken from us. My prayers for her family and her husband, who have touched my soul and spirit. Izzy, you will always be someone that I always remember. Thank you that for sharing your beauty and kindness despite the circumstances. She never lost her smile and I know that your warm smile is radiant to all from above. Thank you for making a difference in my life. My deepest condolence for her family.
YOLANDA TOMINAC
Feb 23, 2019
So sorry to hear about your loss. Our sincerest condolences to the Almazan and Steele Family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the soul of Maria Isabella, Rest In Peace. Her memories will live on. May God give you peace and comfort at this time of sorrow. Yours truly,Manolo and Mary T. Cabasal
MANOLO AND MARY CABASAL
Feb 16, 2019
It pains us to even think of how losing a child would feel. We hope you find solace in the thought that while she is now at peace with the Lord, the fond memories she shared with everyone she met, live on and are profoundly cherished.Rome, Cynthia, Isabel Saratan and Corina Saratan Cooke.
ROME SARATAN
Feb 13, 2019
I am deeply saddened by the loss of a very good friend and classmate’s precious jewel, MARIA ISABELLA ALMAZAN STEELE. My heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the Steele and Almazan’s family. May she rest in peace with our Creator and Lord Almighty in a much better place.
IKE INES
Feb 09, 2019
Isabella and I went to middle school together at ISM. She had an amazing smile and energy about her seemingly at all times. Although we hadnt been in touch for years, it is sad sad news to know she has passed. She deserved all the happiness, life and love this world had to offer her. Praying for comfort and peace for her, her family and friends and whomever else has been affected by her passing.
MIGUEL
Mar 22, 2019
At ISB we met and bonded quickly during various extracurricular activities – she was always always vibrant, smiling, and full of positive energy. I respected her talent, creativity, and intelligence, but above all her warmth. Our relationship had that tomfoolery vibe about it which ultimately tore down walls and allowed us to share our deepest thoughts and emotions. Like her sister, she was a great listener, a wonderful friend, and eager to help out when needed. We didn’t stay in touch much after graduation but I will always cherish our friendship. I have missed, and now must always miss you Shorty. My deepest condolences to the Almazan and Steele families – and to the world – this loss is immense.
SANDER FLEUREN
Mar 14, 2019
NINA BELL
Mar 12, 2019
GRETCHEN CRUZ
Mar 09, 2019
I met Izzy in highschool and she quickly became one of my closest friends. She was kind, loving, funny, and always lit up the room with her positive energy. I have so many memories of Izzy, and every single one of them makes me smile… I will cherish them forever. Love you Izzyness.
IVY YU
Mar 06, 2019
SALMA SAKR
Mar 05, 2019
SALMA SAKR
Mar 05, 2019
How saddened we are by your loss of Isabella, but how fortunate you are to have experienced such a great love. And how fortunate you shall continue to be as you forever hold that love in your heart. Rely on that love to continue to find peace, strength, courage, and inspiration in the years to come. With much love and our deepest sympathy, Pat and Jim Stewart
PAT AND JIM STEWART
Mar 01, 2019
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Our deepest condolences on your loss.
JEFF & BECKY ZAUN
Feb 21, 2019
Dear Izzy- you will forever be in my heart. Our friendship is one I will always cherish.
MELISSA COOPER
Feb 15, 2019
I realize no amount of words will take away the pain of losing a loved one…more so when the loved one is a son or daughter. Our prayers and the prayers of all those who love and care for your family will give you more comfort. God bless you all and may He guide you through thisAl, Agnes, Andrea, and Nick Nieva
AL NIEVA
Feb 10, 2019
Friends and Family uploaded 1 to the gallery.
FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Feb 02, 2019
Isabella made my time in the philippines and at ISM truly special . She was such a good friend to me, and she never made me feel foreign or out of place. Every day at school was full of laughs and jokes and I’ll truly miss her. Condolences to her family and loved ones.
ZEHAVA SHADE ARKY AKINADE
Mar 22, 2019
I met Izzy in high school where we bonded over our shared love of dance – she was such a talented and beautiful performer. I will always remember Izzy’s infectious laugh, the way she lit up the room with her vibrant personality, and most of all what a kind and loyal friend she was. My sincere condolences to the Almazan and Steele families. I am so sorry for your loss.
HARUKO (BUNYAK) BEAL
Mar 14, 2019
Our sincere condolences to the Almazan and Steele family. News of Izzy bought much sadness to our family but we keep her memory in our hearts. Love and thinking of you always, Keith Wan & Nina xx
NINA BELL
Mar 12, 2019
So many great memories from dance, to summers spent in Nichida/Bangkok, Cali/Pepperdine visits, and Vegas trips. Izzy was one of the best souls around – just so positive, kind, caring, and filled with so much joy and love. I cant think of a single person that I know that would have anything bad or remotely negative to say about her. Ive been reading through old messages between us, and I love how I can still hear her voice and laugh through all the messages – I hope it always stays that way. I miss you already Izzy, but Ill never forget you and all the great memories we had together in the short time you were on this earth. I hope our souls meet again someday in paradise and we can catch up like no time has passed at all. My heart is broken that our next catch up session wont be on this earth, but I love you and Im thinking of/sending out love to Ash, Angelica, and the rest of your family during this difficult time. I hope your beautiful soul is resting in peace. ❤❤❤
GRETCHEN CRUZ
Mar 09, 2019
Dearest Ashley,And to Fernando & Wilma, Angelica & Steve, Danyelle & Olivia,And Isabellas family and friends,It is hard to find words that can be helpful or meaningful or comforting at a time such as this, so we will offer a few words from an unknown Author:”What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch. We may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived.And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget.”Isabella gave us a multitude of beautiful memories. Ashley told me that she was the best person I know. Isabella was the best person. The best life partner. The best wife. The best friend. The best daughter, sister, aunt and niece. I believe she lived her BEST life. It was tragically one that was too short. We are left to be grateful with the time we had with her. For the time we were graced with her loving presence.It feels so right that Isabella will be resting here in Forest Lawn. It is the perfect place. Isabella was a star. It is fitting that a small part of her Earthly self will forever be resting with the stars. Her spirit and soul are above us, shining down on us from the stars.Miles and an ocean separate us, but we are with you all in spirit. For now we hold you all close in our hearts.Love always, Aunt Natalie & Uncle Georg & Charlie
NATALIE & GEORG JUENGER
Mar 06, 2019
SALMA SAKR
Mar 05, 2019
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