Stephen Catapodi

Stephen Catapodi, 73, of Tavares, Florida, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on October 28, 2025, at AdventHealth Waterman Hospital in Tavares, Florida.
Born on August 17, 1952, Stephen lived a life full of energy, humor, and heart. He proudly served with the New Jersey Department of Corrections for 25 years, retiring in 2008 after achieving the rank of Lieutenant. Known for his leadership, integrity, and dedication, Stephen was respected by colleagues and friends alike throughout his career.
Outside of work, Stephen was a man who could turn any project-no matter how small-into a grand production, complete with his trademark attention to detail, a healthy dose of sarcasm, and a timeline that usually took six times longer than planned. Whether he was knee-deep in a home remodeling project, fishing for trout, or out on a charter boat in the ocean, Stephen's enthusiasm and passion always shone through.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Arlene Catapodi, and their three sons, Ronnie, Trevor, and Kevin. Stephen is also survived by his beloved sister Maria and brother-in-law Ken Van Parys, cherished nieces Maria Elise and Olivia Renee, sisters-in-law Maureen and Kathleen, and grandchildren Kiernan, Gwen, Gabby, Thomas, Joey, Charlie, Trevor Jr. (TJ), Ian, Seamus, and Kylah, along with many more nieces, nephews, and extended family members who found his unique humor and personal touch confusing!
Stephen's life was defined by hard work, creativity, and the joy he found in making things better-whether it was a house, a fishing lure, or someone's day. His unique way of showing he cared will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Thursday, November 13th, from 10-11 AM at the Bradley Funeral Home, Rt.73 and Evesham Rd., Marlton, NJ. A funeral service will be held 11 AM Thursday at the funeral home. Interment Pinelands Memorial Park, Shamong, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages everyone to honor Stephen in their own way-perhaps by taking on that "small" project you've been putting off and giving it the full Catapodi treatment-even if it takes six times as long as you thought it would.