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Stephen LaDUE Obituary
55, of Odessa, FL died Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. He was born Nov. 15, 1961 in Oak Harbor, WA. He graduated from Leto High School and the Tampa Fire Academy.
After a 30-year career as a Tampa firefighter and paramedic, Stevie retired in 2015. While a fireman, he served faithfully and received an award for an act of courage and bravery that saved the lives of a father and his two children.
Stevie loved being on the water - swimming, surfing, skiing, and fishing. Other hobbies included cooking, gardening, hunting, and woodworking. The latter hobby developed into a secondary career in cabinetry.
Stevie is survived by his wife of 26 years, Cindy (Bentley); and three children, Elana, Niki, and Stephen of whom he was incredibly proud as a loving father. He is also survived by his mother, Linda (Ed) Benoway; his father, Stephen A. (Sheila) LaDue; sisters, Lisa, Chris, Carrie, Megan, and Nicole; and brother, Bobby; as well as a host of nephews and nieces, extended family members, and a very far-reaching circle of friends including his firefighting colleagues.
Stevie will be remembered for his ever-present smile, his love of joking and sharing good times, his generosity and willingness to always be of help to others, and his incredible seafood delicacies and dinners!
A memorial service will be held at 7 pm Wednesday, Sept. 13, at the Blount & Curry Funeral Home on Bearss Ave. Visitation will be from 5-7 pm prior to the service. Memorial donations may be made in Stevie's name to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen LaDUE
Sponsored by Joyce Trimble Long.
Annie Neff ( Savoye )
January 20, 2024
`All Day I Dream About `Stevie´
ADIDAS -his favorite T-Shirt to wear as a teenager !
Lots and lots of love for Stevie and family. Bunches of love.
Cousin Annie.
Jeff Bank
July 24, 2022
You were one of a kind, there was a light over you all the time that shined on your soul, I remember so clearly all the parties at Scott Mills house in the 80s with Marget and Mcdades we all had so much fun when we would go to the beach and start a bonfire, thanks for all the vivid memories and good times, you were a good soul that made everyone feel good when you showed up, it is hard to put into words but we all loved you
Shane Frost
April 4, 2018
I've been in the svc now for 26 yrs, had the privilege to work w/ Steve after his 18 yr stent on Rescue, he was hit for DE and sent to St. 7 where I was a new probie. He was an unbelievable human being as well as "that guy" you wanted on an emergency scene. His personality was addictive, and I'm 2 hours south working another dept and looking up Gov. signs bill for FF's w/ PTSD and I came across Steve's story. I think him and I got along so well because we both were already fighting the same demons. I was dx w/ PTSD after I couldn't shake off calls and "life" as I used to. Steve was the guy I always "try" to be. Sorry for everyone's loss.
Richard & Kelly Gifford
December 13, 2017
Dr. LaDue & Sheila, Lisa & Dr. Keanne, Cindy & Chris, family and friends,
Richard and I just saw a blurb on Stevey tonight on channel 10, no details just a photo of him in front of an engine. Since we retired and moved to Citrus Co., we seldom here news of our TFR family. The tease was about PTSD. We called a friend that recently retired to find out why he was being profiled. We were shocked and saddened to hear of Steve's passing.
Steve and I first met in the 70's through CADASCO, I graduated from Leto '79, then met Steve and Lisa again when I worked for Dr. LaDue in the 80's (Steve was working on cabinets in the clinic). I joined TFR in '83 and Steve joined soon after. Rick and I worked with Steve at Station #14 and #15 at TFR, he was a blast! Everyone liked Steve. He was one of the "Good Guys". Never mean or ugly, always a gentleman and a pleasure to work with. He was so talented and full of life. So funny and sweet.
Know that he was loved and admired by his coworkers. He was a wonderful man and a great joy to be around. He will be well remembered for his competitive nature, his athleticism, sense of fair play and good humor. RIP Stevey. We wish his friends and family comfort. Our hearts are broken for your loss.
December 1, 2017
Linda, Steve, Lisa and Chris,
I just found out about Stevie and my heart is broken. I hope everyone is well and still can't believe it as I write this note. I 've had time to reflect back on all the times and adventures we had over the years on Cobblestone. I remember how back in the day he was obsessed about skateboarding and the hours we spent designing boards and new tricks. He was ahead of his times in the 70's before the skateboard became so popular. I vividly remember the first time Stevie and I conquered skateboarding inside an empty built-in pool and you know that look and big smile that came across his face when he knew he had done some thing crazy and great! I just remember laughing uncontrollably all the time around him, either at him or with him. He was a great guy and the world needs more people like Stevie. I never had a brother but always considered him my little brother back in the day. Please everyone take care of yourselves and I know he has that smile on his face looking down on all of us.
Greg Malarney, West Chester ,PA
Craig Mctavish
November 13, 2017
Stevie you will be missed and honored forever in our broken hearts. you always made me laugh and your smile was infectious. You touched and saved many lives and brought joy to so many. I will miss you my friend and confidant.
Jonard Solie
October 26, 2017
I just learned of Stevie's Death and I just can't believe it. Steve Ladue lived next door to us on lake Keystone. That is how I got to meet Stevie and he was a great person always with a smile. He and his dad were always working in the garage together on building something. RIP Stevie and my prayers go out to his family.
Jimmy Grindey
September 30, 2017
I've read every entry and it's hard to say anything that has not already been said about my friend Stevie. Hilarious, caring, strong, soft hearted and did I mention hilarious. Stevie grew up with me and my brother and was loved by the Grindey family. I just spent some time looking through the many pictures I have with Stevie from a team picture of the CODASCO soccer team when we were 13 to displaying our "catch" after a dive trip in our 30's. I have many fond memories of Stevie but one thing always stood out he was always the "life of the party" and always wore a big smile. He called me just a few months ago when Little Steven graduated Marine Boot Camp. He was so proud and seemed very content. Stevie loved his family, his kids, his career and his friends and will be remembered for that. It pains me that I was unable to attend the funeral to pay my respects but Stevie will never be forgotten and the impact he made on countless people will remain. Watch over us all my friend.
Jennifer Kori
September 20, 2017
I'm so very sorry. I am thinking of, and praying for your family. ♡
Donna Eaton Preston
September 18, 2017
My deepest sympathies, Dr. LaDue and family. I use to work at the old clinic for 7 years (1975 - 1982) and knew Stevie and the family. I think of all of you often and still reflect on what I learned. A friend from Florida forwarded this and it was such a shock. Sending prayers and God's angels of comfort to each of you.
Maurine Wheeler
September 17, 2017
To the Ladue family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Stevie was a wonderful friend who had a big heart and a contagious smile. He will be greatly missed. God bless you.
Dennis & shirley Popham
September 17, 2017
Just heard about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We are so sorry! May God give you strength and peace. Hold on to all your good memories!
Gina & Nancy Garcia
September 16, 2017
Prayers for the family. May he "Rest in Peace".
Tracy McBride
September 14, 2017
I am so sorry for your family's loss. You spread such a bright light for all. You will always be in our hearts.
Kenny Ynes
September 14, 2017
Stevie,
Your laughter and humor will be missed. There were so many great moments in our youth. I was honored and proud to see how many lives you had an impact on. They all showed up those from your youth to your professional life. GOD BLESS YOU BROTHER
Joyce Trimble Long
September 14, 2017
To The LaDue Family,
There are no words that can ease your pain, your loved ones and friends will awkwardly attempt to comfort you. When friends can find no words.... Know that the silences are carrying the thoughts and prayers of all who love you. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Mary Boyce Wells
September 14, 2017
Stevie-
You gave us so many happy memories we will cherish forever. your smile and your laugh were infectious. We all love you very much and will miss you.!!! You were a great friend to so many. I was lucky to have been one. Your family is in my prayers.
Jeff and Ellie Almand
September 13, 2017
Cindy, sorry we missed seeing you, Cris and Kathleen this evening. It was so crowded with friends and family when we arrived. It was a testament to Stevie and you as to how much he touched everyone. Our prayers are with you all and hope that your memories are of the good times that you both had. His smile will be missed. May God bless you with peace and strength to get through this time of sorrow.
Joyce Trimble Long
September 13, 2017
Stevie,
I said a prayer to my son Spencer in heaven the day you died. I asked him to greet you in heaven with open arms and show you around. I know you are in good hands up there with God and Spencer. Rest In Peace my dear friend. You will be greatly missed by all of us who's lives you touched. Prayers to your family.
Love and hugs
Denise Marks
September 13, 2017
I would like to express my sincere condolences to Chris and the rest of the LaDue family. May you find comfort in all of your beautiful memories of your beloved Stevie.
Clarice mcAllister
September 13, 2017
Dear Steve and Linda,
My heart goes out to you both on the loss of your wonderful son Stevie. In the short time I was privileged to share in his life I loved that boy! Such a great kid ! That's how I still remember him after all these years.
I can't even begin to imagine the loss that u must feel and I am sick with sadness for you both.
May you find some peace in your hearts one day and be able to smile again when you think of him
September 13, 2017
My deepest sympathy for your loss of someone so special. I will always remember how he loved the water and loved to have fun. I admired how he served his community as a firefighter and paramedic. May your hearts find comfort in the love that surrounds you. He is just on the other side of the door now ~ Anne Lampru, Ed, Lillian and Paul Greene
Billy Vogel
September 13, 2017
To the entire LaDue family our prayers are with you today.
Stevie was a Great friend of mine in the 70's. When I heard the news from my cousin Terry, I couldn't help but to remember the good time we had growing up on Cobblestone Dr. We did everything together, little league baseball,swimming, fishing, water skiing, camping, a lot of bike riding around Bay Crest, running around the neighborhood, and countless sleepovers.
When my wife Cindy came home after I heard the news, I asked her to name a childhood friend of mine and she immediately said Stevie LaDue. Cindy and our kids Billy, Bobby, Brittany, and Eddie never had the privilege to meet Stevie, but they grew up listening to my stories of growing up with a Great friend.
May God's peace always be with you.
Celeste Allen-Phillips and family
September 13, 2017
Prayers ascending for the LaDue family, friends and co-workers for strength, comfort and peace during this difficult time. May hurts be healed and fond memories held close to heart.
Joe & JoAnne Keene
September 13, 2017
We were shocked, and deeply saddened, to hear about this loss to the LaDue family. Our hearts ache with yours...
I loved him as a brother, and will always remember that he was open hearted, smiling, and was always willing to share his carpentry expertise with me, and allow the use of his tools, while we chatted over a beer in his workshop. Of course, tons of respect is also due him, for the decades of his life he devoted to firefighting, and especially the path he blazed for other family members in that same endeavor. He also gave us a great family to share in the many get-togethers over the holidays, and his laughter was infectious, and will be sorely missed.
Steve & Sheila, Linda & Ed, Lisa, Bobbie, Christine, Terry, Ryan, Carly, Noah, Carrie, Megan , Nicole, and, of course, most especially Cindy, Niki, Steve & Elana, and all of his other friends & family, we mourn with you, and share our deepest sympathy.
Sandy McLaughlin
September 13, 2017
Sending heartfelt condolences to Stevie's family from the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Sandy McLaughlin
VP Development
Barbara Blair
September 13, 2017
Steve, Sheila and Family. My deepest condolences to you during such a difficult time. May you lean on beautiful memories of Stevie and find comfort in God's love.
September 12, 2017
My deepest condolences to Stevie's family and friends. Such a tremendous loss. I pray for God's love to comfort you. Mary Babst
Gordon Smith
September 12, 2017
My deepest condolences to the Ladue family for their loss. May all the great memories you had with Stevie help to ease these difficult times. God Bless.
Ray Nery
September 12, 2017
Lisa, Christine, mom, dad and Ladue family, the loss of Stevie is indescribable and the Nery's thoughts and love are with you and pray you find comfort in the joy he brought to all he touched.
Sonia Alcover
September 12, 2017
Cindy, Stephen, Niki and family, I know there are no words I can give you to comfort you in your pain & sorrow. I am so sorry for your loss and just know that you are all in my heart & in my prayers during this difficult time.
The Lord is close to the broken hearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Psalm 34-18
Angela Maurici
September 12, 2017
Carrie
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the love of God get you through this difficult time. All my love Angela.
September 12, 2017
So deeply for your loss.May God's loving care reassure your heaarts with his promise.-Isaiah.-65:17 MS
Kurt Mclaughlin
September 11, 2017
My thoughts and prayers to the Ladue family. I look back at all the fun Stevie and I had growing up, like going to the sand dunes in bay crest to shoot our BB guns, Fishing out at the point, swimming in the canals, Riding the bus to CODASCO, everything that went on at CODASCO, Water skiing at the lake, Rocking the nights away at the Twain. So many great memories bring tears to my eyes. Stevie always had a smile and good word to say. I am sure God is enjoying his company now. Stevie you will be greatly missed and always loved.
September 11, 2017
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Roy and Vicki Pellegrini
September 11, 2017
Steve and Sheila, Our thoughts are with you. Wishing you and your family comfort during this difficult time.
Gregory Mathes
September 10, 2017
Steve & I became friends in 3rd grade at Baycrest Elementary. Our friendship continued on through high school. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family.
September 10, 2017
Steve, Sheila, and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of
sadness.
Roger and Cookie, Mazeppa, MN
September 10, 2017
Lisa and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. I will see you Wednesday. Let me know if there is anything I can do in the meantime. Jane LaRose
Alan Newsome
September 9, 2017
Stevie and I were friends at Webb Jr. High. We both wrestled there at the stellar weight of 113 lbs.! I'll always remember Stevie as a fun-loving, honest soul!
He will be missed by many! My thoughts and prayers go to his entire family.
Jeff Kilfoile
September 8, 2017
Stevie, You were the best partner I ever had the privilege to ride with on a Rescue Car while serving with TFR! Your skill and confidence were second to none. As I write this, I still can't believe you are gone from this earth but I know you are in a better place now! Your positive personality and outlook in life are what made you such an inspiration to anyone who came in contact with you! I will always remember how much you loved your family and what they meant to you! I love man and may you RIP!
Neal Suarez
September 8, 2017
Great coworker at Fire Stations. RIP our friend. Condolences to family and friends.
Kim Mastin-Murray
September 8, 2017
I remember his smile and his laughter. He was beautiful and so cool. He always made me laugh. He was awesome and we all loved him. Rest in peace my friend.
Robby Thomas
September 8, 2017
RIP... Prayers to your family.
September 8, 2017
Steve was always fun to be around. His laughter andlove of like was a joy to all of us. Our Thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Scott & Judy Chambliss
Ward Smith
September 8, 2017
As kids, you were the best athlete and no body rocked a skate board like you.
"Goodnight sweet prince and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."
wsmith
Abbie Bennewitz
September 8, 2017
Stevie always made me laugh, his smile was infectious. I know I'll see him again, and I'll give him a big hug when I do. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, God Bless.
Rolando Reyes
September 8, 2017
Stevie was my friend as well as my brother at the station. Spent many shifts laughing and joking around. I will surely miss him, a great loss god bless his entire family. May you rest in peace my friend.
Marget Kelly
September 8, 2017
There are no words to express the heartbreak felt by all who knew you. None. What a gift you were in our lives! Never to be forgotten. My prayers for peace in the hearts of your family.
Mary Ann Pellegrino
September 7, 2017
Please know that are prayers are with each other you. We love you all and send healing light of comfort during this time.
Joyce & Layton DeMolle
September 7, 2017
Love, hugs, and prayers for your entire family. So deeply sorry for your loss. May God comfort your hearts during this difficult time. God Bless you all.
Danny Curry
September 7, 2017
What an inspiration and a mentor to me and im sure many more. we will meet again!
Frank & Lynette Garcia
September 7, 2017
Sending prayers, love and comfort to all! Our hearts are broken for the loss of Stevie. We will always remember his love for life and of course his FAMILY. May his memories comfort and strengthen you throughout your lifetime.
Chad Cromwell
September 7, 2017
I love and miss you uncle Stevie. I still remember I got to catch my first fish with you. thanks for all the great memories and all the great things you taught me in life.we love you and will miss you.
Bobby Lane
September 7, 2017
A sadness for all
David Berg
September 7, 2017
Stevie was a huge influence over me in learning to waterski & barefoot on Lake Keystone in the late 70's & early 80's and I certainly looked up to his father Dr Ladue. I thank the LaDues for the memories and will continue to pray for your strength in carrying on. God Bless you all and God Bless Stevie's sole.
The Berg & Wachtler family
Maria Yule
September 7, 2017
Dear Nikki and family,
I am so sorry for the loss of such a great father, husband, son, brother, hero. May God keep you close.
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