Stephen James Ostrout

Stephen James Ostrout, known affectionately as Steve to his family and friends, was a beacon of wisdom, humor, and affection. Born on November 23, 1947, in Hartford, Connecticut, Steve's journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to his loved ones and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025, in Port St. Lucie, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and intellectual curiosity.
Those who knew Steve will remember him as a man who embodied love in its purest form - a love that was generous, selfless, and unconditional. His humor brought light into every room, and his intelligence was a gift that he shared freely, without ever seeking recognition or praise. Steve's life was a testament to the power of positivity and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many.
In every challenge, Steve saw an opportunity for growth. In every setback, he found a lesson to be learned. He approached life with a sense of humor that was as infectious as it was healing. Steve's presence was a source of comfort and strength, and his legacy is one of resilience, kindness, and an enduring love that transcended all obstacles.
Steve's early years in Connecticut set the stage for a life defined by service and scholarship. After a distinguished career serving in the U.S. Army, Steve received a Master's degree from the University of Connecticut and embarked on a long and respected career as a Senior Systems Engineer. He brought a calm, analytical mind to everything he did, and he was known as someone who could solve problems without breaking a sweat - and who always took the time to help someone else learn to do it, too.
Though work and service were important to Steve, his true joy came from the time he spent with his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Patricia, and their children, Brianne Riley (Kevin) and Jeremy (Melissa LaPointe), who will forever cherish the memories of their father's unwavering support and guidance. His grandchildren, Logan and Grant Riley and Finn and Declan Scully, will remember him as a playful and gentle soul who could always be counted on for a laugh or a word of wisdom. Steve's siblings, Paul (Marileta), Nancy Johnson (Keith), Mary Hunt (Larry), and Susan Rombola (John), sister-in-law Carol Pabst, brother-in-law John Carollo (Maggie), along with many nieces and nephews, will miss his warm presence and the unmistakable twinkle in his eye that signaled the start of a good story or a clever joke. Steve was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Geraldine "Fran" Ostrout and father-in-law John Carollo and mother-in-law Marie Carollo.
Away from work, Steve was a man who enjoyed life. His love for trivia and reading were well-known among his circle, revealing a man always eager to learn more about the world around him. Though a disability prevented him from playing golf later in his retirement, a sport he once enjoyed, Steve never let this challenge diminish his zest for life. Instead, he found joy in the simple pleasures -living in the warmth and sun of Florida, the pages of a good book, the thrill of a well-played trivia game, and most importantly, the laughter and company of his family. After moving full time to Florida Steve volunteered hi time to working on the Transition Committee in his community and the Architectural Review Board. He was on lifelong quests to find the perfect song and the coldest beer. It wasn't really about the brand or the place - it was about the experience. The moment. It was about doing less, being present, and enjoying life as it happened. For Steve, the trip actually was the destination.
Steve was a man who encompassed love in its purest form - a love that was generous, selfless, and unconditional. His humor brought light into every room, and his intelligence was a gift that he shared freely, without ever seeking recognition or praise. Steve's life was a testament to the power of positivity
and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. He was part of everything, but never intrusive. The type of person who didn't need to be in the spotlight to have an impact. He was there, he listened, he loved - and that was plenty.
The impact of Steve's life is felt by those who loved him. His legacy is carried on through his family, in the lives he touched, and the peaceful wisdom that he imparted just by being.
His life was a testament to the impact one person can have when they live with purpose and a deep concern for others. Steve's story is not one of sorrow but a celebration of a life well-lived, a life that inspired and uplifted those fortunate enough to cross his path.
Steve, your journey through life was a masterclass in humanity. Your family, friends, and all who knew you will strive to honor your memory by embodying the virtues you lived by. Your departure is not an end but a beacon that will continue to motivate and inspire us to live life to the fullest, with love and kindness as our compass. Rest in peace, dear Steve, knowing that your legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those you touched.
A celebration of Steve's life will be held at a later time with his direction being the bar bill must be greater than the food bill!
Family asks for no flowers but donations be sent to St. Jude’s Hospital.