Surrounded by his caring family, Stephan valiantly fought and peacefully passed from a relentless form of blood cancer. He always put the needs of others ahead of his own, and his selfless nature will forever be a part of our hearts. His life was defined by his unwavering dedication to those he cared about. Steve was genuine, loyal, kind, compassionate, and generous. Those with the good fortune of knowing Steve experienced him as the ultimate caregiver, always trying to make a difference, wanting to help others, and asking nothing in return. He was 67 years young.

His parents immigrated to America after WWII. He was the second oldest of eight children in a large family. He understood the hardships his parents faced and what it meant to survive. With only being in his early 20s, Steve also learned at an incredibly young age what it meant to have his life direction forever changed. His father had passed, and his mother was then widowed with eight children. He found the courage, strength, devotion, and unconditional love to care for his mother and siblings. Just like his mother, he was a selfless provider for his family. While he never had children of his own, he unconditionally cared about his nieces, nephews, and everyone else as if they were his own. He took a genuine interest in their lives, becoming a constant source of support and guidance. It was clear from the beginning that his purpose in life was caring for others. It was the ultimate sacrifice, and he certainly excelled in that calling.  

Steve was a graduate of Omaha South High School and went on to pursue his passion for computers. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He was a man of many talents. Steve was always reading and learning new things. If he did not know, he researched it and learned it. He also worked for a local cabinet shop and learned to be an incredible craftsman. Resourcefulness and affection for his family shone through. Together with his brothers, they remodeled their childhood home for their growing family. His skills in woodworking and mechanics later came into play when they built a comfortable, handicapped-accessible home for his aging mother. Steve was the epitome of selflessness, always the first to lend a hand, hardworking, and incredibly giving, even when it meant his last dime.

Steve, a lover of classical music, enjoyed creating playlists for others, having played the violin in his younger years and even teaching himself guitar. He also played soccer when he was younger and was always ready for a bike ride until he couldn’t anymore. He treasured the outdoors, particularly fishing, and exploring his interest in science fiction and space, eagerly researching the next rocket launch. His presence was a staple at gatherings, where he'd take over family cooking, delighting everyone with his mastery of passed-down recipes. A supporter for autism rights and a lifelong advocate for those in need, Steve tirelessly extended his compassion in countless ways.

Steve defied the odds. Through a heart attack, stroke, and an MDS/MPN diagnosis (later transforming into AML, leukemia), he persevered with unwavering hope and a positive attitude. He maintained his signature easygoing humor, using lighthearted phrases like "Okie dokie" during his treatment. Despite his dependence on blood transfusions (which even led to some good-natured vampire jokes, especially when he hit the triple digits!), he never complained. He focused on living each day to the fullest, surrounded by loved ones. Anytime a healthcare provider would ask what would be easiest for him, his reply would be “Whatever is easiest for you” and close in preparation with "Okie Dokie”. Even during his cancer journey, Steve's gift of compassion for others never wavered. He always prioritized making things easier for those around him, putting a smile on their faces. Dilly bars and frequent fishing trips remained a staple, bringing joy to him and those he cared for.

Steve selflessly spent his years caring for others and gained a newfound dependence on others due to the disease. He understood what other siblings have endured with their cancer battles and was also concerned about what still could happen. He kept track of the world around him, staying connected with his family's lives. Despite his struggles, he offered encouragement and support. Even facing his mortality, his smile never faded. He was a shining example of kindness, and his impression will continue to inspire those who knew him.

The family expresses their deepest gratitude to all the medical professionals who cared for Steve, and everyone in between. We take comfort in knowing his memory will live on through the lives he touched and the example of kindness and bravery he set for many.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a difference. In Steve’s honor. If able, please consider donating blood products at the Nebraska Community Blood Bank or the American Red Cross. Alternatively, donations can be made to Bags of Fun or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Our heartfelt thanks to all of those heroes who donated blood products. We would not have had the extra time with our brother if it weren't for their selfless acts of kindness from donors. It truly is a "gift of life." Donate or volunteer in any way you see fit. Being kind and helping others is the best way to pay tribute to him and what he valued most.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stephan (1980), mother Gisela (Pikschus)(2022), niece Dominique (2020), great-nephew Thomas (2011), and leaves behind a loving family: his siblings Bo, Ted, Chris, Mary Cyr (brother-in-law Lee), Susan, Steph Tusa (brother-in-law, Ben), and Doris; Nieces and Nephews: Lisa, Tanya, Royce (Emily), Marisha, Louisa, Elisabeth, Emily, David, Callie, Zoey, Hailey, and other loved ones.

… We miss and love you brother 

 A Celebration of Life will be planned and will be announced at a later date. 

Bags of Fun link is below and will take you directly to the Bags of Fun Omaha Donations page

https://bagsoffunomaha.org/make-a-donation/