Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Stephen Firestone Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Firestone
Skip Schoenhaar
May 19, 2005
Dear Harv,
The Spring and Summer that we always looked forward to, will never be the same. As we go to the water or in the boat we can still see your face with that giant smile bigger then life. I relish the hanging pictures of you with your family,"Little Tommy", in your Theta Chi jacket or posing with the Harley, leather and all. As we all know my dearest friend forevers can be but a day away, as such Byron's quote on friendship begs contemplation. "Fare thee well! And if forever, still forever fare thee well." Until "forever", Rest in Peace. Skip.
Suzanne Firestone
April 26, 2005
I am so greatful for all of the wonderful memories I have of my uncle; his smile, his laugh, and even his bunny bites (ouch)! I miss him very much but I look forward to celebrating with him in Heaven.
Love,
Ginger (little Suzanne)
Mary ( Bader)Cochran
April 19, 2005
How many times this year I have thought of you Steve--so many! You will sneak into my thoughts when I least expect it. Sometimes I smile because you have that ornery expression on your face and sometimes I just feel a quick sadness to know I won't see that smile until I get (I hope) to heaven. I just know you are there!
At Christmas time this year I put out the hot sauce for your vegetable soup. You wanted it spicier that last Christmas and asked for hot sauce. In Mexico they set out favorite foods during certain celebrations for those who have past on and I thought, just in case, I wanted you to have your hot sauce with the soup!
At Easter, you were really in my thoughts, since you and Magda spent that last Easter dinner with us just over a year ago. We stood out on the back deck and it was a beautiful day. Little did we know how soon God would call you.
Magda, you are such a strong part of my memory of Steve, even though I haven't known you all that long or spent a lot of time with you. What a beautiful woman you are with your kind and gentle ways. Our busy lives just keep us on the go but please know not a week goes by that I don't think of you and Steve and whisper a little prayer for all of us. Blessings
Mary
Clara Jackman
April 19, 2005
Dearest Steve,
What a pleasure it is to get to know you better, through Magda. On the day of your funeral, I felt so cheated. It seemed that Wayne and I were the last to meet you and your beautiful wife. In the short time that we were with you, we came to love you dearly. You knew that didn't you. Steve you never failed to let us see Christ in you. You always put everyone else first, giving all of your best. Your contagious laughter and special humor continues to bring life to many somber situations. This year we have learned much about the wonderful life you shared with Magda and so many others. What a blessing to Know that we are still together in Spirit, my brother. Forever worshipping in the presence of the LORD.
Love and Honor
Clara
Teresa Enciso
April 18, 2005
Hello "mi amigito": You sure made us laugh a lot when you and Magda would come to our house on your way to Miami and back home. It was always a joy to have a wonderful friend and brother in the Lord understand our Latin culture and enjoy our craziness but I mostly thank you for being a very loving and devoted husband to my best friend Magda. You love each other so much which can only be found in HIS TRUE LOVE. Ciao, Teresa Enciso
Skip Schoenhaar
April 18, 2005
Dear Harvey, You can see by the wonderful guest book entries just how much you meant to all of us especially your beloved family. It's not necessary to be a saint on earth, just a good person, it's not necessary to be a millionaire for the wealth of any man is in his being and it's never necessary to brag of dedication and sincerity, your family and friends will do that and so we have. Until later, Skip.
Ginny McGuckin
April 18, 2005
To all of Steve's Family and Friends: 365 days! It seems like years and it seems like yesterday! I loved it when Steve and Magda moved to Akron. I would be walking in the park and coming around the trail would be Steve -- He'd turn around and walk with me for awhile giving me advice on the best walking shoes, the best trails, the best vitamins, etc., etc! Or I would be in the Acme and he'd come up behind me and hug me with a hearty "Ginny Bader! You look just like my Mom!" Then I'd get advice on the best fruit, the best vegetables, the best pasta, etc., etc! I think Steve thought I needed alot of help! I wish he were here now to give me more! I cherish the times we had long talks about family, religion, and love. Magda, you are certainly an adored woman! He made me laugh when he told me how he loved to walk down the street with you and watch all the men looking at you knowing that you were HIS wife. Steve was not without vanity where you were concerned! And, of course, he never tired about telling brother and sister tales!
He is missed by many....
Fondly...Ginny
Simone Schaller
April 18, 2005
Steve, the way I remember you is thru your kindness, your laughter, your gentleness towards myself and others, I especially loved the way you loved Magda and would just stare at her with so much love and admiration. You were such a gentlemen, such a wonderful Christian man, who lived the life and was a wonderful example to us all. I will be comming home soon and will be looking for you, I told Magda that I will give you a big hug and brotherly kiss for her. See you very soon, so I am told by the doctors.
Love always your friend that's 89 years old.
Simone Schaller.
Magda Firestone
April 18, 2005
Baby, I forgot to say, while writing in your guest book, I was listining to one of our favorite song's by Jimmy Durante, "I'll be seeing you in all familiar places" how true that song is for I do see you in all our familiar places, cooking, doing yard work, cleaning house, Swenson's, Marc's, the path where we loved to go walking at, church where you loved to worship at, and all thru your beloved Akron. I do see you in all familiar places because my love for you keeps our memories alive and well. I'll be seeing you and holding you again soon and very soon. I love you sweetheart. Love your Madge!
Jessica Bader
April 18, 2005
My fondest memory of Steve was probably the last time I saw him; a few months before he passed. Usually my visits to Steve & Magda's West Akron home consisted of coffee and conversation with Magda, and a glimpse here and there of Steve. But in December, my visit to Akron and catching up with family was so different. Steve actually sat down with Magda, my mom, my brother Kevin, and me as the five of us talked about life. I could see for the very first time that Steve was filled with the Holy Spirit by the way he spoke and shared with us. It was amazing to see Steve as a Godly man and profess that in his conversation. Steve - what a great memory you have left for me in my heart. It is one I will cherish forever as I knew you were living your life for our God!
Christopher and Nancy Desmond
April 18, 2005
Hard to believe that a year has almost passed. We knew we'd miss Uncle Steve terribly but the reality has been even more impactful than we'd imagined. Not a day goes by that we don't remember him vividly; often with a laugh at some quirky, uniquely Steve memory (like the Wrigley Field bus incident). And sometimes with overdue awe as we revisit and reabsorb some of Uncle's understated but immense wisdom and kindness (such as visiting May, the elderly lady he used to rent garage space from in Chicago, remembering her birthday, etc.)
I think a friend put it all into perspective recently when she commented on how remarkably blessed were we to be among the special group of people who could count Uncle Steve among our closest and dearest friends and relations. How rich we were and still are for having known him when so many others did not get the chance.
Uncle Fyr, we love you.
Ricky, Sifer and Cubbie
Magda Firestone
April 18, 2005
My beloved Stephen,
Today is Monday, April 18th, 2005, tomorrow will be one year since you so beautifully went home to your beloved Savior! But it was on a day like this, a beautiful spring day, on a Monday that you went home. I can not believe that a year has gone by with you not physically near me, holding me, squezzing me, loving me and telling me how much you love me, calling me all 19 and more names you have for me., I would never have been completed as a woman without you in my life, you always admired the fact that Jesus is number 1 in my life, but knew you were #2, and you came to that place on your own, you fell in love with Jesus in such a way , that I could never put it into words, but because of it you loved me in a more devoted way, you trully had unconditional love. I never knew I would ever love the way I love you, I've been told by many that what we have, was a stuborn, powerful love that would refuse to give up on each other and that's because we came to know the meaning of becomming one in Spirit, and Soul mates, this is why my beloved Stephen, it has been so hard to want to live without you., I've been told by so many in ministry, that there are so many marriages of many years who never get to have what we had in 5 years and 7 month and 19 day's., I remember you saying to me
in the kitchen on varioius ocassions, Madge as long as we have God and each other, We have everything we need., then you would hold me and kiss me so tenderly, and say, "I love you Madge and thank God for you, after Jesus you have been my greatest gift from God." Oh Steve, you are one of the most tender,loving,kind hearted,
funny person, I have ever met. In all reality you were and are the best of us two., and it's been very hard living without you., as you would say " It's by His Grace, Madge only by His Grace, we all get thru each day., that's why I can't wait to get to Glory! Now I, like you look more forward than ever to get to Glory! To be with our beloved Savior, with each other, with our little girl Stephanie Antonia, and with our loved ones.
When I took a vow, the day we were married, I vowed(pledged) my love and loyalty to you alone, and though physicall death has parted us
spiritually we are still one and will always be one. I know it won't be long for me, before I come to you. I pray to finish the good work, Our Lord began in us both for His Glory!, so I to can be promoted to be with Him and you and our loved ones.
I love you my beloved Stephen, and know that soon and very soon we'll be together again. Love you, your Madge, Island girl, Little Cuban princess, God's servant, Lucy, so on and so on. Forever one. You and Me. Madge!
Frances Pena-Rice
April 18, 2005
Steve not a day goes by that I don't think of you and your wonderful laughter and humor. Your voice is one to miss when I call Magda.I missed you at my nursing graduation. You were right, you'd say "hang in there nurse Francie you'll make it" and you were right as usual.You were God sent to so many of us, I just wish you'd still be here with us. Please take care of my mom and mayita. We love you always!
Nurse Francie
Emma Chavez
April 18, 2005
Dear Steve,
I can't believe a year has gone by already. I still expect you to jump from behind a chair or hide behind a door and come out laughing as you starle me and see the weird face I make. I miss seeing you in the kitchen always coming up with your own delicious recepies and never writting them down. I miss seeing you hugging Magda until she can't breathe and you cracking up. I know our Lord took you to your reward, but we still miss you and wish you were still with us. Hope to see you soon in Paradise. Love, Emma of Akron.
Mike and Ronda Page
April 18, 2005
Dear Magda
It's hard to believe Steve has been gone for one year. We really miss him. Steve was so special, he had much wisdom, love and laughter to share with everyone he came in contact with. He is truly missed and forever with us in our heart. We love you Magda and we are still praying for you.
Love Michael and Ronda Page
Kathleen Firestone
April 18, 2005
It will be one year tomorrow, (Tuesday, April 19th,2005) since Steve went home. We still miss him, cry over him, remember how he always would laugh or react to funny or crazy situations. If he were still with us here on planet earth, he would be absolutely wild over the new grandbabies that were born last year...and the ones to come. We miss you Steven~Even! I think we as a family never quite get over when a sibling dies, or is gone. It's because we draw life and strength from one another. And this family drew strength from you. I have a picture of all the Firestone Siblings that I took the February before he died. That was one of the most fun days of my life... all together, just living and laughing with and at one another!!!... I will treasure that memory forever...Steve was all dressed up looking like he was going on a duck hunt! Thanks for the memories, Steve. Many more to come in Heaven!!
Richard Bader
April 17, 2005
Stevo!
I miss your phone calls and I miss
you rescuing me. You had such a great attitude and always very uplifting.
I miss you Honey Boy!
Love Uncle Deek! Uncle Deek!
Bader
Mary Ineich
April 17, 2005
Dear "Big Bert" Steve
It sure is hard to believe that your
one year anniversary to heaven will
be tomorrow. You are so truly missed by all of us. There is not a day that I don't think about the many wonderful memories we had. I miss you terribly Big Bert!!!
Love always,
You sister Mary (Aunt Bee)
CLINT FIRESTONE
April 17, 2005
STEVE (sky)
SO HARD TO BELIEVE THAT YOU DON'T WALK THIS EARTH ANYMORE!!!!
YOU AND I HAD SO MANY WONERFUL MEMORIES TOGETHER AND I REALLY MIS SHARING THEM WITH YOU. NOT GETTING YOUR E-MAILS AND PHONE CALLS WILL TAKE A LONG TIME GETTING USED TO. YOU WERE A WONDERFUL BROTHER AND A GREAT FRIEND. WE WILL PICK-UP THIS RELATIONSHIP AGAIN IN HEAVEN!!!!!
YOUR FAVORITE BROTHER (CLINT)
suzanneFirestone Peika Firestone Peika
June 3, 2004
How wonderful to establish this guest book! I loved reading it, cried the first time and fifth time and inbetween to read it.
Although I was at the funeral and am completely aware that my brother Steve has gone to heaven it hits me like new all the time.
The other day I was in the grocery store and as I saw a can of peas I remembered Steve said never to buy them as they were bleached or something. Then I got to the milk counter and I heard Steve say give the kids whole milk they need it, then I got to the bakery and he said buy that one, I just started crying and left the groceries there.
Most of my memories of Steve include food for some reason, He and I lived at moms house when she was sick with ovarian cancer.
One day Steve read about dust mites so his room was vacumned twice a day for a month, and he told everybody about it, then dust piled up once again and he said what he couldn't wasn't bothering him!
Our standing joke was that he would fix a great samwhich and I would sneak behind him grab it and run..he would scream, then one late afternoon there was a big storm Mom Ted and I were in the basement and Steve was in the kitchen I went up and he was just finishing fixing a three tier samwhich, he walked into the dining room and I grabbed it and ran to the basement feeling really bad because obvioulsy this creation took a lot of time, he just laughed it was a set up he had fixed two and said the bait he left for me was not as good as his!
Another time everyone came back from church, it was a cold morning and I had a chocolate cake in the oven, as everyone came in still with their coats on, I told them it was a icecream cake it had to cool and the ice cream put inside and it would take a few hours, everyone had to look in the oven to make sure the smell was accurate and unbeknownst to me Steve left and came back with three or four big boxes, icecream cakes from Baskin robbins he said he couldn't wait and when I asked why he got three cakes he said with all the leapers here I want to get a big piece so he was just making sure!
Will write again later Steve you are so missed, I called you Anthony so I should say Anthony I miss you so much! Love Suzanne
Emma Chavez
May 23, 2004
Dear brother (although you were married to my sister, you were my brother), With whom will I be able to share and exchange recepies with now? Every time I come accross a good one, I say to myself "Steve will love this one! But then saddly realize that you are no longer there. It was such a pleasure to cook for you and Magda. You not just enjoyed the dishes but really made people feel good that you liked them. You made such a fuss over it. It is hard now to find a motivation to even cook something special, you won't be there to enjoy it! I gave you daylilies last year for your garden. You were so exited, just like a little kid. You even called me in Miami to tease me that your plants were growing faster than mine. And oh how you wanted me to introduce a new cultivar and name it "Emma of Akron". But...... I find it more fitting to name one after you. You were a great guy, one minute you'd be laughing the next crying. You showed all your emotions and that is what endeared so many to you. I wish we could continue talking (hey, email is find also), I miss that. What you and Magda had is what every married couple dreams of having in a marriage. You complimented each other beautifully, but you always had our Lord first. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. Just make sure you save us all a seat! You were one class act! Until we meet again, soon I hope. Your loving sister-in-law, Emma.
Christopher Desmond
May 20, 2004
Not one day has gone by where I've either picked up the phone to call you or are wondering why you haven't called yet--especially when the Cubs are playing. Nancy and I are in London right now and were reminising about our travles to Europe and other exciting locations. Remember our 'short' flight through Iceland? We miss you very much and will always love you as an Uncle, Father, God Father (for Jack) and Best Friend.
We are so glad our Aunt Magda will carry on Firestone Ministries and we will support her in every way we can.
See you in Heaven!
Love,
Christopher (Ricky), Nancy (Sifer), and Jack Wrigley
Ramona Rosa
May 20, 2004
My Dear Sister Magda,
My heart goes to you..Mags I love you..
I shall miss you Steve, not only were you a gift from Jesus Christ for Magda, to be her husband, friend,partner of faith; but you became a prayer warrior and encourager. As I witness your growth, faith, joy, commitment and surrender to our Lord, I can truly say you have made an impact to my soul. Thank you for being a man of integerity, simple and humble, who loved my soul and cared for my concerns and family..when I hurt you hurt..when I couldn't laugh you laughed..when I cried you cried..when I felt weak and couldn't believe you hoped. You were no longer a friend but became my spiritual brother-n-law. I thank God for the last words of encouragement you said," Just love Jesus..it's not about color, it's not about material things, it's not about money but just about loving Jesus." Thank you for the moments you,Mags and I have shared.
Until later Monin
Joe and Kathy FIRESTONE
May 18, 2004
A HUGE THANKS to all of the Holy Trinity COGIC, Particualrly Rev, Jackson and Jacqueline, Bro. Robert and Sondra, Bro. Mike and Rhonda, Jackie,and all the rest of the church family and friends that blessed our family with breakfast, lunch and dinners and for helping out with all the details while we were in Akron. Your support is seed that you will reap for eternity! A special thanks to the family who pulled together and made Steve's homegoing a beautiful Homegoing. Maggie, we are all in shock and our prayers are with you daily. Thank you again, Dennis and Kathryn for blessing our family with such a generous gift to Steve and Magda... your kindness will never be forgotten. Joe
Lisa Voightmann
May 18, 2004
I have such wonderful memories of my Uncle Steve. Most of them are funny ones. I love him dearly and will always appreciate the quality time that we were able to share together. Most of all, I am proud to hear of all the great things that he allowed God to do through his life. What an inspiration and hope you have been to many! I love you and will see you on the other side.
Love, Lisa
Steve Peika
May 18, 2004
uncle steve, I will miss you in so many ways. I am so lucky as to of known you. love (jimmy jet)
till we meet again.
Jackie Tieman
May 1, 2004
To Steve's family and friends;I never had the priviledge of meeting Steve in person while he was here,but I am looking forward to seeing him someday when I am called up. We were friends for twelve years which was a very short time,but this friendship will last forever.
Doug Bailey
April 29, 2004
May I express my deepest sympathies
to Magy and all the family on the passing of Steve to be 'forever with Jesus'. To see the remarkable spiritual growth of such a humble man with a servant's heart over the past several years was indeed an honor and priviledge of mine to experience. I am so thankful for the long walks, the Cub's games on TV, the laughs, the talks about the Lord, etc. ; but especially the realness in that Steve would never hesitate to 'open up' and be honest without being judgemental. Magy and Steve were a truely blessed couple that worked so well in ministry together to bring glory to God. Steve, I know we will see you soon, "good buddy".
Kevin Woods
April 27, 2004
Its not often you meet such a gentleman in this world. Steve lived his life to the fullest each and every day. I will miss him.
Katherine Reed
April 27, 2004
Dearest Magda & family,
Finding the right word is difficult. Steve was a good man and although I will miss him, I have peace in knowing that I will see him again. His passing clearly falls in the Deut. 29:29 category...It is one of those 'secret' things that only Abba Father has the answer for. Rest in Father's Arms. Eternity will reveal all. Our prayers are with and for you.
Skip Schoenhaar
April 26, 2004
Dear "Harvey",
Cannot comprehend not being able to call you or get a message that you just called. If there is a phone somewhere I know you will find it.
Thirty-Eight years as best friends are not near enough. You were always there when needed and I surely hope I was there for you. You graciously shared your wonderful family with me and they will continue to be in my thoughts.
Theta Chi Fraternity was wonderful and unique to create these bonds of brotherhood for so many men. I will take your loss to my grave but in every day thoughts cherish the wonderful experiences we shared in our lives.
You were then, now and forever the best and I will miss everything about you. Your big brother, Skip.
Rita Maischaider Proffitt
April 23, 2004
Magda, Suzanne, Clint, Mary Beth, Ben, and Joe. I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved husband and brother Steve. Such a kind spirit. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Steve was certainly a fun cousin to grow up with - as were ALL the Firestones! I remember going to Swensons when he was working there. Always gave him a good tip - because he was so cute! When he and Magna moved back to Akron, Steve brought back many wonderful memories to Mom. Steve, you will be missed by every Halter family generation.
Francie Pena-Rice
April 23, 2004
Magda and The Firestone & Bader Family,
I pray that you will have peace through this time and always. We are all fortunate to have been a part of Steve's life. I also pray that the whole family will continue to be united in front in his memory.
Susan Maischaider Gentry
April 23, 2004
Sincere condolences to Magda, Suzanne, Clint, Mary Beth, Joe, and Ben. I am so sorry for each of you and how this loss effects you.
Magda - you are a wonderfully gracious woman with so much love in your heart. How fortunate that Steve had the last few years with you. Truly a blessing for you both. And, thank you for your love toward my mom, Dolly. She thinks the world of you. I'll be praying for you to have peace and happiness.
Suzanne, Clint, Mary Beth, Joe, and Ben - You have all been through so much. what an unexpected thing to happen. I remember Steve as such a pleasant great sweet guy and part of a fun family of brothers and sisters. My very best wishes to all of you and your families. Your mom has some company now!
Love to all,
Susie
Linda & Christian Vetter
April 23, 2004
Please accept our deepest condolences.
This is truly a great loss.
Edwin Dieringer
April 23, 2004
Our deepest sympathy to all who knew, loved and admired Steve.
The Dieringer Family. (Theta Chi Forever)
Frances Pena-Rice
April 22, 2004
Steve we will miss you very much!!!!
You made me smile when nothing seemed funny. Your loving ways and caring will be truly missed. I can't imagine not having you in our family any longer. I will remember you with lots of love,fondness and regret that we didn't have more time with you.
Rocco (Bro. Rocky) Wellington
April 22, 2004
To Sis. Firestone and the Firestone family:
Allow me to offer my most deepest condolences on the lost of Bro. Firestone. After I spoke at Holy Trinity last Sunday, Bro. Firestone was such an encouragement. The word he and Sis. Firestone shared with me just made me want to float even more after the tremendous move of God in that service. We know we will see our brother again, but in the mean time my prayer is and will continue to be that of comfort, guidance, and God's love to you all. God bless.
Eld. Rocco Wellington
Mary Rice
April 22, 2004
our sympathy
mary and Homer
Araceli Vega
April 22, 2004
My sincerest condolences. Steve was a wonderful man and will be deeply missed. Steve and his family will be in my prayers.
Rob McCormick
April 22, 2004
Please extend my deepest sympathy and condolences. Steve's vibrant personality and never ending smile will be sorely missed, but, I'm sure, never forgotten.
Dunn-Quigley Ciriello & Carr Funeral Homes
April 22, 2004
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Showing 1 - 42 of 42 results
Make a Donation
in Stephen Firestone's name
Memorial Events
for Stephen Firestone
How to support Stephen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Stephen Firestone's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
