Arthur Nils Steika

Arthur Nils Steika, a long-time resident of Johnson City NY, passed away peacefully at the age of 101, at Piedmont Hospital in Rock Hill, SC on October 14, 2025. He was born to Michael and Andrea Steika, of Morris Run PA, on October 8, 1924.

He was predeceased by: brothers Charles and Ardell; sister Arlene McNamara; and his wife of 68 years Louise Letson Steika.

He is survived by: his son and daughter-in-law Nils Arthur (Karen Ludlam) grandchildren Joan (Stephen Fallon), Sarah Steika, Nils Jr (Kim Watson); son Charles Michael Steika; son and daughter-in-law Mark Wesley (Marion Carmichael), grandchildren Hillahn (Austin Jennings), Roman (Amy), Barak (Ashley), Quartus (Lydia); and daughter Lou “Toots” Steika. Great grandchildren: Grace and Nicholas Fallon; Jack and Archer Locke; Elise and Benjamin Steika; Korie and Getson Jennings. Many nieces and nephews.

Art was a veteran of World War II serving as military police and was part of the liberation of Buchenwald. He lost his brother, Charles, in the European conflict. After the war, he drove coal trucks in Morris Run, PA. He was a star pitcher for the Morris Run Miners and inducted into the Tioga County Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. His love of baseball continued throughout his life.

After moving to Johnson City, he met his wife, Louise, who lived next door to his brother Ardell. He married “The Girl Next Door”. He was employed by IBM for over 30 years as a Security Officer. Art was an active member of Westover United Methodist Church where his wife, Louise, was the church organist for over 60 years. He worked on many church projects with his best friend Edward Ludlam. Art was a strong man of great faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He loved his family, friends, church and his time spent at Lawrence View Park on the St Lawrence River where he was a managing partner.

Art was a kind and generous man. He lived a long and fulfilling life, and was lovingly known as “an Officer and a Gentleman”.

There will be a memorial service at a date TBD. Those wishing to make a memorial gift may send it to Unity Presbyterian Church, 303 Tom Hall St, Fort Mill, SC 29716 and mark it for the Music Program.