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Austin Stephany Obituary
Irondequoit: Monday, August 4, 2008, at age 83. Survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Lois (Riley) Stephany; children, Dianne Stephany (Norm), William (Margaret) Stephany, Patricia (William) Smith, Kathleen (Les) Dingfield, Mary (Thomas) Veltz, Joseph (Susan) Stephany and John (Kimberly) Stephany; siblings, Richard Stephany, Mary Ann Huber and Dolores (Raymond) Young; 16 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Friends may call Wednesday, 1-4 PM, 7-9 PM at the JOHN M. HEDGES FUNERAL HOME, 1717 Portland Ave. (at the corner of Portland Ave. and Ridge Rd. E.). Funeral Mass Thursday at 10:30 AM at Peace of Christ Parish at St. Ambrose Church. Interment Oakwood Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to William H. Riley Memorial Scholarship, Saint John Fisher College, atten: Development Office, 3690 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618. Bud will forever be remembered for his service to others, as a long time member and past commissioner of the Laurelton Volunteer Fire Dept. A WW II U.S. Army Veteran and Bronze Star recipient. A local business owner, employer and loyal friend to neighbors of the community. A man whose life was a testament to faith and family. Bud appropriately passed away surrounded by his family in prayer.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Austin Stephany
Jona Wright
September 23, 2008
Dear Grandpa (Papa),
As Grace says you are "all around" and "everywhere"! I have so many memories to keep you all around and everywhere, from dinners (even as a child, if we did not like the choice at home) to Saturday breakfasts and everything in between for Grace's first five months of life. You taught me many lessons about human service and human nature, only following with support, listening ears, and kind words... many great lessons for life! You touched so many and left smiles with all. You never judged and always understood. Grace says that she remembers you reading the newspaper and your kisses; Austin often asks about "Bapa's house", once we get passed the fire house... they knew you for a short time, they will know you through the stories that will keep you alive. Thank you for all you have done! I love you and miss you, Jona
September 23, 2008
A Great Portrait!
September 23, 2008
Mom and Dad at the WWII Memorial
September 23, 2008
Boyfriend and Girlfriend Forever
September 23, 2008
Dad WWII
September 23, 2008
Brian Soles
September 22, 2008
Dear Lois & family, I would like to thank all of you for taking me in and treating me as one of your own.I'm going to miss Bud just as much all of you.He taught me how to grow up - be respectable - responsibility.There is so much more.All I really want to say is that I miss you Bud and I never got to thank you for the second chance in life and all the love you gave me.So much more can be said but we all know what a great MAN,SAINT,FATHER,ICON,TEACHER he was. All my love and prayers.
Diane Mason (Vacca)
September 18, 2008
Sometimes in life, just by being the example for kids,the biggest impacts are made. That was the case for me when it came to Mr. Stephany. I always felt welcome and safe when he was around. Mr. Stephany will forever remain one of the most positive influences in my life. I can't really talk about him though, without acknowledging Mrs. Stephany. The loving teamwork is what I believe empowered them both. The legacy of integrity, love and generosity is being carried on a little more in this world because of Bud being at the helm of a family I am blessed to know.
Bob Perrotta
September 15, 2008
Dear Lois and children,
A great man was taken from this earth when Bud passed but he left us with a part of him inside us all. For me, he was my boss, my friend and a second father to me.
He was a mentor, not only a person who taught me about working on cars but one who taught me about life's lessons. He was a shinning example of what a businessman should be, and what a family man should be.
Always there with a smile, handshake or a tip of the hat.
I always hoped that my kids would be able to work for and learn from a person like Bud.
He was the best and will always be remembered.
Bill Stephany
September 14, 2008
Mom and Dad,
I consider myself blessed to have been a child in your family, nurtured, raised and loved by two wonderful parents who gave us all a most secure and happy home to grow up in. The two of you made many sacrifices to give all 7 of us important gifts of a faith based education, and the other basics of life. You gave us many other wonderful gifts including; a strong work ethic, sense of service to others, and a love for family to name a few.
And you were both shinning examples of faith and marriage.
As a happily married married man of 37 years, Dad I cannot thank you enough for that strong example you provided in my life.
You were a wonderful father, employer, friend, great guy and patriot - I love you both Mom & Dad. Your son, Bill
Ashley Veltz
September 14, 2008
Grandpa,
I miss you so much everyday. I remember when I was little how much I loved your "pink" applesauce. I would ask my mom to buy that kind when she shopped and she told me that was a special kind Grandma and Grandpa made. I remember when I would sleep over you would make me my favorite things for breakfast and that was so special. I was over once after school and you sat down with me and helped me with my homework and explained it so I would understand. I miss how you would ask me how school was going and always taking an interest in what I was doing. You always made me laugh when you "stepped on a duck". I know you are not suffering any more and you are in a better place with God. I wish your time with us was longer......May you rest in peace Grandpa. I think about you all the time and I know you are here with me. I love you.
Love, Ashley
Dianne Stephany (daughter)
September 14, 2008
Dad,
You were my first love
A strong handsome gentleman
Your blue eyes danced
Humor, intensity, sadness or
disappointment, I could always read the moment
Your shoulders were stong and muscular
In my eyes there wasn't anything you couldn't do...
In my early years, my delightful memory of reading the Sunday "funnies" and trips to get ice cream and fresh roasted cashews are still vivid pictures and cherished moments...
Warm summer Sunday breakfasts in the park and sunny winter sledding expeditions have also left lingering smiles in my heart...
I always felt special...often there were crowds around us...and yet if we were engaged in conversation, I had your undivided attention
Spending alone time with you...simple sharing of my dreams or ambitions would rejuvenate my spirit...
Listening to your stories let me realize what a wonderful man you are
Your love seemed unending and tireless...you taught me what love is
through your caring ways, honesty, generosity, and commitment
Your encouragement and love made me want reach for the stars ...
I could accomplish anything if I tried
You always believed in me...
Oh there were so many times I disappointed you...
But your love never wavered...
Patiently you continued to show me love...
At times I felt I didn't deserve your love but, never for your lack of caring...
Dad, your smile and laughter always warmed my heart.
Holding your hand, I felt strength and trust...
I always knew everything was going to be ok and I was always safe in your presence...
As the years have passed, I realize this man I love still provides a safe haven for my weary sometimes frightened spirit...
Dad your smile, wisdom and faith has been an inspiration and challenged me to do the best I can...
I am grateful to have so many memories and very proud to call you "Dad"!
Marilyn (Ziobrowski) Freeman
September 13, 2008
To dear Lois and family,
I can't tell you how special my memories are of Bud. Always that warm smile and cheeky sense of humor. For all these years I have not forgotten the kindness, warmth and fun growing up with Patty surrounded by her wonderful Mum and Dad and family. Lois,especially for you, thank goodness for your strength as your loss is very great. Bud has left a legacy of the most closely knitted, supportive and loving family ever. That is a true testament to the outstanding man that he was.
Love
Marilyn Freeman(nee Ziobrowski)
Julie and Sean Goonan
September 11, 2008
Grandpa was a bright spot in the world, a word of encouragement, a glimmer of hope and generosity.
I have a lot to thank Grandpa for, and while I am sure I thanked him before, I want everyone to know all of the wonderful things he did for me. And to say thank you one more time.
Thank you for making applesauce with me while Grandma and Mom did the CROP walk. You were always disappointed that I didn’t remember doing that…so I need you to show me that memory some time.
Thank you for being there on my first day of kindergarten. I remember my dress, my bag and taking that picture.
Thank you for having a gas station. And a station dog. Where I could get gum out of the gumball machine, and visit my uncles. And where you planted flowers out front.
Thank you for having a pick up truck. It carried so many of the Christmas trees I remember from growing up. Sorry we spilled hot cocoa that one time.
Thank you for having a garden and teasing me about stepping on the baby carrots. And for having raspberry bushes and zucchini. I miss your canned zucchini tomato mixture.
Thank you for giving me bubble gum when I had my wisdom teeth pulled out. I promise to do that to my kids some day.
Thank you for being the kind of person who always found someone they know. Whether it’s in Oneonta, Pennsylvania or wherever.
Thank you for coming to my WCMF promotions. You and Grandma were my favorite attendees.
Thank you for charging me 25 cents a night to stay at your house (kidding).
Thank you for helping me learn right from wrong. Sometimes that was hard.
Thank you for laughing at my speech at high school graduation.
Thank you for telling war stories - the funny and the sad ones.
Thank you for telling me the story of the “red dress.”
Thank you for drinking the Rob Roys I made you. I later learned that Sean makes a better one – good thing I married him.
Thank you for letting me take your last name.
Thank you for giving Sean permission to marry me, and then walking me down the aisle. I know that day was hard on you, but you made that day so special for us both.
Thank you for showing us what 60 years of marriage looks like. And that hard work, honesty and love are all you need in this world.
We love you.
Julie and Sean
Alyssa, Chris, Bryan & April DeCiantis/Stephany
September 10, 2008
Grandma and Grandpa,
Words can't sum up how much Grandpa will be missed, or how much he was, is and always will be loved. But that doesn't mean we can't try to put those feelings into words.
We loved his stories - whether it was his first time he saw grandma with images of pigtails peering at him over an ironing board and or their first date and getting sick off orange soda, finding a way to get to mass in the middle of snowy Germany during the war, or stories of trips to Europe with his fellow veterans and all the friends he made and stayed in touch with - we'll definitely miss the stories.
We loved the way he always listened with true interest - his love for you shining through in the interest he took, regardless of how silly or ridiculous your story or problem might be - and his true interest confirmed when he asked you about it several weeks later to make sure that your ridiculous story or problem turned out okay.
We loved his hugs. Plain and simple, Grandpa gave great hugs.
And perhaps most importantly, we loved his faith - demonstrated so clearly through his love for everyone and his refusal to pass judgment on anyone. God's love shone through him as he loved his family, his friends, complete strangers and perhaps most clearly in the way that he loved Grandma. Thank you grandpa for your example of love and faith.
We'll miss Grandpa more than words can express. It's a little easier knowing that he's waiting for us, but we still can't wait until we can hear another story and get one of those fantastic hugs.
We love you Grandpa.
Love,
Alyssa, Chris, Bryan and April
Mary Stephany-Veltz
September 9, 2008
Dad,
I miss you so much everyday. It's still so hard to believe that I won't see you every morning for coffee and breakfast. Although my heart is still heavy and there is such a void in my life, I know you are there and with me every day. You were always there for me and I could count on your wisdom and constant love and support. I consider myself truly blessed for having you as my Dad, the best Father anyone could ever have. Your spirit lives on and always will. All the countless times you laughed, gave advice, or just listened will echo in the memories of my life and the lives of so many others you touched. I am so grateful and proud to have had you as my Dad and your legacy will live on with such wonderful memories I hold so close in my heart.
I love you and am proud to be your daughter.
Joe Stephany
September 4, 2008
Dad,
I miss you so much. Susan and I want you to know that your grandchildren, Sarah and Vincent will know who "Grandpa Bud" was, even though you're no longer with us. I could not have asked for a better Father, friend, teacher and employer. I've always been and always will be proud to be your son--you are and always will be, my hero.
I love you and miss you.
Joe
Mark Stephany
August 31, 2008
I accidently found this guest book when searching for sports articles about my youngest Son (Austin J. Stephany). The many expressions of respect for Bud brought tears to my eyes. I didn't know him, but only hope his coincidental namesake grows up to be half the man Bud was. My condolences.
Mary Burger
August 14, 2008
Kathy and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes out to all of you.Special Hugs For You Kathy. xo
Gary Mary and Melissa
Steve Brayley
August 11, 2008
We are very sorry to hear about Buds passing, as a child i will always remember him at his service station, always running , but always had time to give a young kid a smile,With love and thoughts for your family...Steve and Janelle Brayley
Melanie Meunier
August 8, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss.
Bob and Mary Ellen Dow
August 7, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you guys at this time. My memories of Bud leave me nothing but smiles. He was truly a special man and we're very lucky to have known him.
Suzanne Bruno-Noto
August 7, 2008
Dear Mrs.S and Family,
The first word that comes to mind when I think of Bud is " gentleman". He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He was kind and thoughtful and always helpful. He always had a smile for you.
My Dad passed in 1976 and after that Bud always took care of me whenever I came into the gas station. He always looked out for me and my pick of junk cars that he helped me keep as long as possible.
Bud was good friends w/ my Dad and I felt a connection knowing he had known my Dad for so many years. Bud also took my brother Bob under his wing at Texaco gas station for many years among many of the other young guys in the neighbor hood.
He was truly a wondeful example of what we all should be in life...good and loving.
My deepest sympathy to all of you in your loss. Myself and my family will always have Bud in our thoughts and our hearts. Hopefully he and Dad are laughing over a good cup of java w/ the big guy!!!
God bless you all,
Love, Suzanne (Bruno) Noto
"Oldest Niece" Linda Voelkl
August 6, 2008
Aunt Lois and all the Stephanys,
There are no words to convey the sense of loss you all (and I) feel. You're all in my prayers as we grieve the loss of this wonderful husband, father and friend. Uncle Bud was simply the best... a man well loved and a life well lived.
Angela (Terranova) Tota
August 6, 2008
Dear Lois and Family,
So sorry to hear of your tremendous loss. Bud was an amazing man and a wonderful role model to many.
I still cherish the days of visiting your family with my Aunt Mary Adams.
May your fond memories of Bud bring peace and comfort to each of you.
You are all in in my thoughts and prayers.
Marisa Wakefield
August 6, 2008
I'm sorry I could not be there tonight. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. I did not have the honor of meeting him but I can see how much he truly meant to each of you.
Steph and Kathy, If you need anything please let me know.
Marisa & Jade
Nanci (Freedman) Pinkerton
August 6, 2008
Dear Kathy and family,
I am very sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. I have many heart felt memories of your Dad, Mom, and the whole Stephany family from years past. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
My deepest sympathy.
karen dexter
August 6, 2008
I have such fond memories of Bud, especially when I had sleep overs at the stephany's house when Pat & I were at Mercy High. Bud made me feel like part of the stephany clan! We had such laughs! His greatest legacy was laughter,that's how I will remember him!
Keith Wright
August 6, 2008
My familys thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. As a brother inlaw to Jona my interaction with Bud was not all that much but when I did see him I felt a connection with him but as I think about it, that is probably how he made everyone feel like you were a very close friend. He will most cerntainly be missed but never forgotten.
Kathy and Mike McGinn
August 6, 2008
Dear Lois. Di, Jamie, Jona, Julie and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We so admired Bud as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was truly a wonderful man blessed with a beautiful family.
Greg Stephany
August 6, 2008
No words are adequate to even highlight a life such as Uncle Bud’s, for he touched so many lives. For me, I found great pleasure in just passing time with him, laughing over a cup of coffee or hearing the old stories that would have me hanging on the edge of my chair. Family and God first, he always made time for everyone. Always the first to offer assistance, and last to ask for thanks… Uncle Bud was the type of man we need more of. He will be dearly missed and thought of often. My most sincere condolences to everyone he leaves behind.
Colleen Smith
August 6, 2008
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Marilyn Rink (Groat)
August 6, 2008
Dear Lois and family,
Where do I begin. As we all grew up as children in the neighborhood how can we forget any of our fathers and mothers. Your father and mine along with Uncle George were good friends. I remember my dad would come over to your house and fix your appliances and your dad would fix our cars or motor home. I cannot believe my dad has been gone for twenty five years. Lois my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. There is not enough space to write everything I would like to say. God Bless
Ann Kurz
August 5, 2008
Dianne and all the Stephanys:
I am truly sorry to hear of your dad's death. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Although I hardly knew "Bud", I had the pleasure of learning about him through Dianne's many stories. I know that he was a wonderful and kind man, who will be greatly missed. May your memories of him comfort you. My sympathies, Ann Kurz
Rich & Kyra Padula
August 5, 2008
Jamie,
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. We will keep your grandfather and your family in our prayers.
nina cristantello-lindauer
August 5, 2008
dearest lois,pat, diane, mary and family, my deepest sympathy goes out to you..bud was an example of what a perfect father and husband could be..he never lost his faith or his will to please his family. he will always be remembered for his greatness..and most of all his witty smile and personality..he now joins all the true hero angels in heaven..he will be missed, however his greatness will live on in his wonderful children..i have had the pleasure of knowing the stephany women..and they truly are great..may god bless you during this time of grief..please know it is an honor to know such a wonderful family..be strong..all my love..lois you were a wonderful wife..and pat and mary and diane..you were excellent daughters..god bless you..nina
Bob Crandall
August 5, 2008
Lois and Kids; Bud was always a class act for me. I would also say he was very respected by my dad. As kids of the firehouse, Bud always treated us like family - as all of you did. I cannot make the wake but know that you are all in Deb (my wife and lover) and my prayers.
Bob Crandall
Ron Mayer
August 5, 2008
I will always remember Bud for his contributions to the Firehouse and community.
Susan Roberts
August 5, 2008
Where do I begin to explain how much Bud has meant to our family. He was a devoted friend and co-fireman at Laurelton with my father-in-law, a wonderful mentor to my husband, Ken and by far my favorite patient at the doctor's office that I worked for.
I will miss him dearly and "Budnick" will always have a special place in the Roberts' family hearts.
Bill Bruno
August 5, 2008
Dear Lois, Joe, John, and all the Stephanys:
Bud was just the greatest guy who will long be remembered for all the kindnesses he showed to everyone he met. He helped to raise more than one generation of young men in the Culver/Shelford neighborhood. I have many fond memories of Bud that I shall cherish always. Thanks for sharing him with us.
With my sympathy and love,
Billy Bruno
Dan Christa
August 5, 2008
Joe, Mrs. Stephany and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. Mr. Stephany was always a gentleman to deal with and a pleasure to be around.
Sincerley,
DAN CHRISTA
M. Gary Guiste
August 5, 2008
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family...
Mario Macias
August 5, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with the Stephany family.
Kristin West
August 5, 2008
I will always remember Uncle Bud smiling, laughing, and enjoying his family. My sincere condolences to Aunt Lois and his family.
Love,
Kristin, Matthias, Lucas and Clara West
Trish Cole
August 5, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
mark stephany
August 5, 2008
He was one of the most influential men in my life, as well as highly regarded among friends and neighbors. He set a wonderful example by the way he lived, which can be easily seen through his outstanding children. He will be truly missed, but never forgotten.
Elaine Krenitsky
August 5, 2008
My condolences to the Stephany family. I'm a coworker of Pat's. So sorry to hear about your Dad.
Rosalie Terranova
August 5, 2008
Lois and family, I am so sorry to hear of Bud's passing. I have many fond memories including the time my car rolled down the driveway and Bud thought my kids were in it. He came flying over to make sure everything was alright (it was!) He was a good neighbor and friend and will be missed by many.
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