Stephen Jez

Stephen Joseph Jez, 78, passed away July 26, 2024 in Erie, Pennsylvania. He was born in Oil City, Pennsylvania, on May 1, 1946, the youngest son of the late John and Stephanie Jez. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret "Margie" Kaliszewski.
Steve graduated from Venango Christian High School in l964, then moved to Erie, where he built his life. Working at General Electric for 33 years fed his family, but coaching and mentoring fed his soul. During his many years volunteering as a basketball, softball, soccer, and baseball coach and in late night chats on the front porch, Steve would always find something "unique" or "dynamic" about anyone in his presence. Everyone left their conversations with him feeling charmed and uplifted. Steve often shared the story of his hero, Roberto Clemente, whose spirit of generosity and sacrifice he emulated throughout his life. Steve drew strength to handle life's hardships from dedicated prayer and visualization practices, and a dose of early morning reggae music. The local creeks, forests, and Lake Erie were like second homes to him, an avid hunter and fisherman. In his later years, he enjoyed long drives through the back country roads, hanging out at the Lawrence Park Fishing Club, watching sports (always hopeful for the Pirates) and sharing stories of his youthful adventures in Oil City.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Dori Blum Jez and his three children: Anne "Zeke" Forsythe and husband Aaron of Covington, WA, Tammy "Jammer" Jez of Gig Harbor, WA, and James "Will" Jez and wife Marie of Pittsburgh, PA; his four grandchildren: Athena, Astrid, and Arwen Forsythe and Jalen Jez; brothers John Jez of Oil City, PA, and Robert Jez of Erie, Pa; and sister Julie Rybak of Oil City and many nieces and nephews.
Keeping with his private nature and the Jez family trait of "not wanting a fuss", Steve's wishes will be honored with no calling hours and a private burial. The Kloecker-Bailey Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. is handling the arrangements. Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Erie City Mission or a charity of one's choice. A Celebration of Life will be held at a date convenient to the family. Until then, "shoot straight and keep a tight line."'