Mr. Stephan D. "Steve" Pietsch

UTICA – Mr. Stephan D. "Steve" Pietsch, age 55, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, reuniting with his loved ones who had gone before him.

Born in Kaiserslautern, Germany, on July 14, 1970, Stephan was the son of Gerald W., Jr. and Heidemarie (Huhn) Pietsch. The family later relocated to the United States and settled in the Utica area, which they have since called home. Stephan graduated from Utica Free Academy with the Class of 1988, and-ever a man of strong work ethic-immediately entered the workforce. He performed operational duties for call centers for much of his life and later concluded his career in the healthcare field.

On August 11, 2001, he married the love of his life, the former Cynthia Majeskie. From the first moment they met, they felt as though they were meant to be together. Stephan taught Cynthia how to purely live and enjoy life. When the world tried to separate them through trouble or adversity, they stood together and always emerged stronger on the other side. They shared great fun throughout their life together-endless car rides, cruises, concerts, long trips, karaoke nights, and visits to amusement parks. They saw every day as an adventure. They never grew tired of each other's company and always found comfort in simply being together. They were blessed to raise their daughter, Jamie, through her teenage years together. Over their thirty years, they built a lifetime of treasured memories.

Stephan was a good man with an infectious laugh who made friends and touched people's lives wherever he went. Quick-witted and funny, he had a natural ability to carry a conversation. Never one to sit still, he lived life to the fullest and was always ready for any experience. He tried to show those around him how beautiful life could be. He was a joy to be around, and anyone who knew him was truly fortunate. He especially relished the holidays and family gatherings. The family feels deeply blessed to have shared one last Thanksgiving together this season.

He was selfless and always placed the needs of others above his own. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand to friends and strangers. A testament to his stellar character, he was even recognized for his volunteer work at the Masonic Home.

He loved sports, especially a good hockey game. He also enjoyed all genres of music, from country to a little Janet Jackson, and even took his granddaughter Shyanne to see Twenty One Pilots. He could often be found enjoying a meal with a margarita in hand.

Stephan is survived by his devoted wife, Cynthia. He treasured the memory of his daughter, Jamie Lynn Shingler, who preceded him on November 6, 2016. He was honored to become a father figure to his granddaughters, Shyanne Kagan and Ophelia Parisi, and Adalynn Harrington. He additionally leaves to cherish his memory his beloved parents, Gerald W. and Heidimarie (Huhn) Pietsch aunts, Karen Pietsch (the late Bruce Pietsch), Cathy, and Linda; cousins, Sarah and Brandon Wilson and their boys, Susie Pietsch, and Thomas Beasley; in-laws, Michael and Ellen Majeskie, Mary Morosco, and Joseph Majeskie; many close friends; and his fur children, Cody John "Pickle" Pietsch and Malakhi Pietsch. He was additionally predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joseph and Marlene (Neunsen) LaBoon; paternal grandparents, Gerald W. Sr., and Dawn (Foster) Pietsch; in-laws, Sharon S. "Sue" Granato, and baby Karen Majeskie.

Stephan's entire family would like to thank the entire staff of the Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Center at Utica for the care and comfort they provided to Stephan, as well as the staff at Albany Medical Center for giving the family another eighteen months of life and time together with Stephan-the family is deeply appreciative and grateful.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 4:00-5:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Stephan's funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home.