Michael Joseph Stefano, Sr. Sr.

Michael Joseph Stefano, Sr., 73, of New Castle, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, at UPMC Jameson, surrounded by those who loved him most dearly.

Born on September 10, 1951, in New Castle, he was the son of the late Michael and Marie (Morella) Stefano. A proud graduate of New Castle High School's Class of 1970, Mike embodied the spirit of a Red Hurricane-loyal, passionate, and proud-throughout his life.

A lifelong member of Holy Spirit Parish, Mike took special pride in his early education at St. Vitus School. His faith was unwavering, his values deeply rooted in tradition, and his heart always open to others. Known for his levelheadedness, Mike was a calming presence and the voice of reason for many. He had a rare ability to find the silver lining, even during life's greatest storms.

On September 9, 1972, Mike married the love of his life, Jacque (Greco) Stefano. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Mike was a devoted husband, a proud father to Michael Joseph Stefano, Jr. (Beth) of Hermitage, and a deeply loving "Papa" to his granddaughters, Nicole (Kyle) Strader of Germantown, Ohio, and Sarah Julieann Stefano of Hermitage. The way his face lit up at the mere mention of his granddaughters was infectious and endearing.

He found immense joy in his role as a great-grandfather to Cooper, Jax, Kade, and Ireland of Germantown, Ohio, who brought light and laughter to his later years.

Mike's professional life was marked by a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community. He spent many years working in the offices at Remacor, and later served the public with the Mercer County branch of PennDOT until his retirement. Even in retirement, Mike remained purposeful, maintaining and managing his own family small business, M&J Industrial Cleaning, which he took great pride in and sustained for many years.

A proud Italian-American, Mike cherished family traditions-especially during the holidays. Whether baking his family's recipe for Easter Bread, which was a labor of love, helping to prepare the Feast of the Seven Fishes, or playing A Christmas Story on loop every Christmas Eve, his joyful presence created lasting memories. His family will forever smile like he did whenever they hear his favorite instrumental, Sleigh Ride. Affectionately known as "Papa Pancake," Mike was famous for his endless supply of pancakes and for delighting loved ones with surprise gifts-often inspired by his fondness for QVC, HSN, and scratch-off lottery tickets. The next one was always going to be THE winner!

Mike was also a passionate sports fan-devoted to his hometown Red Hurricanes and fiercely loyal to the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins - win or lose. He made it known, when asked, "What is your favorite season?" He'd boldly reply, "Football Season!" His sports memorabilia collection was legendary, reflecting a lifetime of enthusiasm and pride.

Mike is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Jacque; his son Michael Jr. and daughter-in-law Beth; his granddaughters and great-grandchildren; his brother Ralph (Laura) Stefano of New Castle; his sister Mary Ann Stefano of New Castle; his brother-in-law Albert Greco III of Baden; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, and dear friends who all held him close in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant brother, David; his in-laws, Mildred and Albert Greco, Jr.; and a sister-in-law, Georgie Greco.

Mike will be remembered for his quiet strength, boundless generosity, and deep love for family and tradition. His life was a shining example of kindness, humility, and devotion. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

He will be fiercely missed, forever loved, and deeply remembered. What a gift he was to this world. May he rest in eternal peace and light.

Visitation will be at Ed and Don DeCarbo Funeral Home, 941 S. Mill St. on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. On Friday at 12:45 p.m. there will be a procession from the Funeral Home to Holy Spirit Parish – St. Vitus Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 1 p.m. officiated by Father Aaron Kriss.