Stephen "Steve" John Penico

Stephen “Steve” John Penico, 68, of St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025, from complications related to ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).

Born in Palo Alto, California, Steve moved with his family to Rolla, Missouri, in 1966. He was raised in a home that deeply valued education-his father, Tony Penico, was a mathematics professor at what is now the Missouri University of Science and Technology, and his mother, Eva Penico, taught German at Rolla Senior High School. Steve shared a close bond with his brother, Dave, whose perfect memory was treasured by all who knew him.

Steve attended Rolla public schools from the fifth grade onward, graduating in 1974. He was active in sports-especially basketball-and participated in several student organizations, including the German Club, which was sponsored by his mother, “Frau Penico.”

Returning to Northern California for college, Steve graduated from Stanford University in 1978 with a degree in economics. His early career focused on econometric studies and demand forecasting for consumer products. He lived in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., before moving to Chicago, where he earned a law degree from the University of Chicago. Though he practiced law briefly, his true passion lay in computing. Steve moved back to Missouri in the 1980’s and for over four decades, he was a self-taught “jobbing programmer,” participating in the computer revolution. He enjoyed work every day, most recently working for Keefe Group and NISA.

Steve was a lifelong learner and Renaissance man. He had a deep curiosity about the world, with interests spanning math, languages, history, political science, and classical music, most recently learning to play the viola. Steve took a deep dive in learning physics after ALS forced him to retire. He was a voracious reader, ranging from murder mysteries to classic literature. Steve's sharp wit and effortless sense of humor lit up the room and left everyone laughing. He was also a gifted teacher and mentor who delighted in helping others learn.

On August 30th, 2003, Steve married the love of his life, Paige Penico. Together, they built a joyful family that included her three sons-Ryan, Sanjay, and Kevin Seetharaman-and their daughter, Ella. Embracing fatherhood at 45, Steve poured himself into the role, attending school events and performances, helping with homework, and quietly modeling values of compassion, integrity, and respect.

A devoted member of Parkway United Church of Christ in St. Louis, Steve served on the church council, sang in the choir, and gave generously of his time. He found deep friendship among the “Manly Men Hikers,” a group of friends who bonded over shared hikes and camaraderie.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved brother Dave (2008), father Tony (2011), and mother Eva (2017). He is survived by his loving wife, Paige; his children Ryan, Sanjay, Kevin, and Ella; and the family’s beloved pets-Finn, their 15-year-old Labradoodle; Zoe, a 23-year-old Blue and Gold Macaw; and Rambo, a 32-year-old African Grey parrot. He also leaves behind many cherished cousins and dear friends.

Steve's legacy lives on through his decision to donate his body to ALS research at St. Louis University, contributing to the advancement of science and offering hope to those affected by the disease.

Services: A memorial service will be held at the Parkway United Church of Christ, 2841 N. Ballas Road, St. Louis, Missouri on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the ALS Association in Steve’s memory.

A service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin. Friends may sign the family’s on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.