Stephen R. Strychowski

In Loving Memory of Stephen (Steve) R. Strychowski
Stephen R. Strychowski of Manassas, Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, leaving behind a profound legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories.
Steve was born on June 6, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Frank and Victoria Strychowski. He married Sandra Smith on October 27, 1963, in Toms River, NJ. He was a proud Navy veteran who loved to relive his times in the service with all who would lend an ear. He built a distinguished career as a skilled dental repair technician. A true master of all trades, Steve could build or fix anything he set his mind to. He generously shared this expertise with others, always offering advice and knowledge to help his family and friends succeed.
A natural athlete and outdoorsman, Steve competed at the highest levels in slow-pitch softball and was also an accomplished golfer who spent many days on local courses highlighted by a hole-in-one at Stonewall Golf Club. He approached everything with a drive to excel. Even as age slowed him physically, his passion for speckled trout fishing in North Carolina's Outer Banks remained undimmed. Even on days when everyone went without a single bite, Steve's skillful touch could always coax a fish to strike.
Above all, Steve's greatest joy was his family. He was the devoted husband of Sandra Strychowski for 62 wonderful years. A loving father, he took immense pride in his daughter, Christine Gontarz, and her husband, Dave; and his son, Stephen Strychowski, and his wife, Maria.
Nothing lit up his world quite like being a grandfather. He spent countless weekends attentively watching his grandchildren, Victoria Gontarz Hall, Paul Gontarz, Wesley Strychowski, and Tyler Strychowski, excel in their sports and music performances.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Victoria, and his brothers, Leo, Teddy, and Freddy.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra; his children and their spouses; his adored grandchildren; and many others whose lives he touched.
Steve will be forever remembered as a man who always strived for the best for himself and, most importantly, for those he loved. His lessons, generosity, and unwavering devotion have left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Lung Association in Steve's memory to support lung health research, education, and advocacy. Contributions can be made online at lung.org (select "Honor or Memorial Gift" and note "In memory of Stephen R. Strychowski"), by phone at 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872), or by mail using their tribute form. The family will be notified of your gift.