Stephen A. Wichrowski Jr.

Stephen A. "Steve" Wichrowski Jr., 83, passed away peacefully at his home in Longmeadow, MA Friday Feb.20, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late Stephen and Wanda (Grencewicz) Wichrowski and was born on January 12, 1943 in Springfield, MA. Steve was a lifelong resident of Longmeadow, a community he cherished deeply and to which he remained devoted throughout his life. Steve was graduate of Cheshire Academy and a graduate Western New England University.

For more than 40 years, Steve worked as a production technician with WHYN Channel 40, a role he embraced with pride and dedication until his retirement in 2008. His quiet professionalism and love for broadcasting left a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike.

A man of deep faith, Steve was a lifelong communicant of St. Mary's Church in Longmeadow. He was also an enthusiastic and longtime member of the Sons of the Desert - the International Laurel and Hardy Appreciation Society, reflecting his enduring love of classic film and comedy. In his spare time, Steve found great joy in sharing his passion for old movies-often presenting classic films at civic and correctional facilities alongside former local television personality Hal Statton. He was an avid collector of vintage films and autographs from Hollywood stars, building a remarkable collection over more than five decades.

Steve's interests carried him far beyond New England. For many years, he traveled to New York City and London, England, to attend theater productions, savoring the magic of live performance. Closer to home, he was a familiar and beloved presence at the Eastern States Exposition, attending annually for over 70 years-a tradition he treasured.

He is survived by several cousins and was predeceased by his aunts and uncles, John and Edna Pelka, Frances Zakowich, and Chester Juniewicz. He was deeply grateful for the kindness and companionship of his devoted caregiver, Sam, as well as the many family members and friends who visited and cared for him over the years.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield, on Saturday Feb. 28, 2026 for one hour of visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a procession to St. Mary's Church, Longmeadow, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Committal services will follow at St. Adalbert Cemetery, Enfield.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve's memory may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. To leave online condolences, please visit www.leetestevens.com.