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Stefano Ottaviani Obituary
STAATSBURG - Stefano Ottaviani, age 47, of Staatsburg, died unexpectedly Friday, July 18, 2014 at the Mid Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY. Stef was born July 29, 1966 in Rome, Italy. He is the son of Bruno Ottaviani and Roberta M Roy. Stefano married Catherine Kelley, the love of his life, on September 22, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Stefano had been the proud owner of Gallery Ottaviani since 1997. He was known throughout the community for his meticulous work. Most importantly, he was known for the personalized relationship he held with each of his customers. Because of the commitment of his regular clientele, he was able to maintain his business throughout years of a weakened economy.
Stef graduated from Ketcham High School and attended Dutchess Community College. Stefano was a Black Belt in the Tang Soo Do Moo Duk Kwan Federation. His love of nature led him to be an avid golfer, boater, and jet skier. Stefano's natural gift for music allowed him to play and compose music with his family and friends.
He was a very affectionate father, husband and son. His children will be forever grateful for his skill, knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport of soccer. He was often to be found on the sidelines of his children's soccer games, offering encouragement with video camera in hand.
Stef is survived by: his wife Catherine Ottaviani and his sons Sebastian, Spencer, and Cameron Ottaviani, all of Staatsburg, NY; his father Bruno Ottaviani and mother Roberta M Roy, both of Poughkeepsie, NY; his parents in-law Peggy Bozlinski of Highland, NY and James Bozlinski, of Poughkeepsie, NY. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday July 23, 2014 from 3-8pm at Timothy P. Doyle Funeral Home Inc., 371 Hooker Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY. A celebration of Stef's life will begin at 7pm. Burial will be in Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery, Poughkeepsie, NY at a later date. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.doylefuneral home.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Stefano Ottaviani
Sponsored by Roberta M Roy - Mother.
Roberta M Roy
July 16, 2025
Stef was a natural environmentalist. At age eight, he came home tearful because a beautiful tree on the street behind us had been cut down for no apparent reason. As a child, he always kept a terrarium, through which rotated garter snakes, turtles, and toads. As an adult, he kept a huge fish tank in which large fish swam. As for his home, in front of it, he built a patio centered by a fish pond with a fountain spewing forth from its center. A lovely man. Very giving. Very caring.
Roberta M Roy
July 16, 2023
Stef was a natural environmentalist. I recall one day when he was perhaps eight or nine his coming home angry, almost tearful because they had cut down a most beautiful tree that grew on the street up the hill from ours. And his being empathetic and loving. Always loving.
Aunt Wilma
July 16, 2021
Dear Family. It´s hard to believe it´s been seven years. Seems like yesterday when I was in Stef´s shop chit chatting and laughing with him. I miss him a lot and no words can express my feelings of sympathy to all of you. Sending love and hugs, Wilma
Wilma Tully
July 16, 2020
Dear Family, Stef was such a sweet and loving nephew and friend to many. I think of him often and can still hear his cute laugh and see his beautiful smile. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing you many happy memories. I miss him too. Love, Wilma
Roberta M Roy
July 16, 2020
Dear Stef,
I will forever miss your warmth, your courage and enthusiasm for life, your appreciation of each person with whom you came in contact, your kindness and integrity, your art, your music, the loving fathering you provided your sons, and, most of all, the warmth of your smile.
Mom
Judy Creedon
July 17, 2019
I still think of Stefano often, especially when I am looking at all the beautiful art you framed in my home. I know he would be extremely proud of his family- they continue to honor his memory with beauty and grace. He is sorely missed.
Wilma Tully
July 16, 2019
My heart goes out to all of you. It is still so hard to believe he is gone. He was such a sweet and lovable guy. I know he is watching over all of you and is especially proud of how his boys are doing. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I loved him too and miss him. Love always and prayers,
(Aunt) Wilma
I
August 21, 2014
Bruno, Catherine and family....
I am soooo sorry to hear this. Bruno, it's been a long time since I've seen you (back when you lived in San Diego)so I hope you remember me. Even though I never knew Stefano, it breaks my heart to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Paula Patti
Eileen Lohner-Turk
August 19, 2014
Dear Stefano's Family,
I just found out last night about this tragic event as I am on the West Coast...I am at an utter lost of what to say.....I understand 1,000 people showed up for the funeral, Stefano was loved by many people. He will be greatly missed by his family, his parents, his children and his friends. God Bless all of you as you struggle to go on without him. He will be looking down on all of you and watching over all of you......Prayers & deepest condolences to all. Love, Eileen (Lohner) Turk, Calif.
August 15, 2014
My dear Stef,
today I waited for you, but you did not come. I now know what it tells me: it says that like a dove you flew away not to come back—not to return. Now I sit and gaze…. But the memories you have left with me will keep me company for as long as I live—and I know that you wait for me. Stefano, I loved you more than anything and more than I was ever able to show. And now you are at peace. And now you are at peace.
Your loving Dad.
August 7, 2014
Catherine and family,
My deepest sympathy to you at this time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Beth Utter
Parent of ARC member Nicole B.
Judy Creedon
August 1, 2014
I am so sad and shocked to learn of Stefano's death. I have been a customer of his for more than 20 years. We always talked about art, family, golf...and life. I just saw him before the 4th of July- we talked about his family, which was always at the top of his agenda. I cannot express enough how sad I am for your loss. He was a dear heart.
Donna B - shadows marina
August 1, 2014
Lighting this candle for Stefano and his beloved family whom he loved and cherished. God bless you all!
Michelle Logan Diliberto
July 30, 2014
Catherine and Family, we were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest sympathy and prayers for you and your family.
Christina, Barry and Zack Plambeck
July 30, 2014
Catherine, Sebastian, Spencer and Cameron,
We are so sorry for your loss. We are going to miss Stefano's sense of humor, his proud face when talking about one of the boys' accomplishments and his pure zest for life. We will miss Stefano on Halloween night for our annual get together. I still remember Stefano, the proud papa, playing the Mr. Six music on his phone at people's doors so Cameron could do that dance. Cameron even made some money that night...
We love all of you and are here for you for whatever you need. Please do not hesitate to call.
Bonnie Beechey
July 29, 2014
Robyn and Family, my heart breaks for all of you. i just can't imagine what you are going through right now. Nothing i can say will make any of you feel any better. But i just want you to know that i am thinking of all of you at this very sad time. May our good Lord guide you through this.
Roberta M Roy
July 29, 2014
My Dearest Son,
Happy Birthday! Your too short time here on earth brought me the greatest pleasures of my life . . . your love, your beautiful sons, and many happy memories. I am so proud of you . . . ethical, dedicated, and loving to the end. With any luck, wherever you are, you and my mom are once again in cahoots on a treasure hunt.
Here you shall be always remembered . . . and loved.
Hugs and more hugs, Mom
Rose Piazza
July 28, 2014
Dear Robin,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on your son, Stephano's passing. I remember you telling stories about him at Nassau and know he was a wonderful son,husband and father. May our Lord hold you close during this painful time.
Rose Piazza
Amanda Davies
July 27, 2014
My son Dillon is a classmate and friend of Sebastian. We would like to offer our condolences and prayers. Although I did not know Stefano personally, I remember seeing him at all of the school concerts, and he will be missed. Let Sebastian know if he needs a friend, he can call Dillon.
Marilyn Lavelle
July 26, 2014
There are no words. My love and prayers to you and yours. Only God can get you through.
Anne Dinio
July 26, 2014
I have many treasures that my son created over the years preserved by Stefano. He would never make me feel rushed no matter how long it took me to make a choice. I always ended up taking his advice, because it was always the best choice. He always wanted to know the details around the item he was framing - recognizing how special each item was. I think hearing the story that went with the art helped him create a "feeling" in his work. The last time I was there, he was proudly showing a certificate that one of his children had recently earned. He was excited about the frame and color choice, anticipating how the finished product would look. Proud of his family, his work and his life, he will be greatly missed.
July 26, 2014
Thinking of stephano every 15 minutes.Anthing that I can do to help no matter how big or small just call-616-2972- I will be there. Remember I am the only one that knows what is in the hole behind dryer.Can not thank you enough for invitation for Christmas dinner when I was alone .My wife and son was in Poland.I have learned new meaning for word unexpectedly. Lots of love from my heart for you guys.
Faith, Katelyn & Taylor Fina
July 26, 2014
It is with a profoundly heavy heart that the Fina's bid a premature farewell to a beloved friend and meticulous craftsman. Customers for only a relatively short time, we came to know Stef as a genuinely engaging man who lived life on his own terms but had the innate gift to make it better for all those lives he entered. He was always able to put a positive spin on your most pressing complex problems, not intrusive but sincerely and intelligently caring. His legacy is to be honored and treasured by his three sons and whenever we see a rainbow we'll think Stef is its orchestrator. Heartfelt condolences to his beloved parents and wife Catherine, the love of his life.
Lynette Wieserner(Sassone)
July 24, 2014
Catherine and family,
I am so sorry for your loss and my heart hurts for you all. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time! God Bless and Take care.
norma sampson
July 24, 2014
Dear Robin and family sincere sympathy in your loss may God bless all of you and sustain you sincerely
Norma Sampson
Traci Juranic
July 23, 2014
To Sebastian and his family,
My heart goes out to you and I am so sorry for your loss.
July 23, 2014
I am so very sorry for your loss. I knew Steph when we were kids- he was always on his BMX bike- seemed like he never slept! He came up to me with that Steph smile- thirty-five years later at our boys soccer game, remembering the old days in the neighborhood. I told him he must have found the fountain of youth. He raved about his wife and family as the reason. Great guy, great Dad and I bet a great husband. I can't even imagine what you are going through. I am praying for you. Ellen Davis Sinon
July 23, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family! Bruce, Anne and Lisa Fields
Lisa Coppola
July 23, 2014
Catherine, words can not express how heart wrenching the loss of our loved ones gone far too soon! Know that God will embrace your beautiful Stefano and he will hold you and your sweet boys close to his heart! Hold on to the love and support of family and friends who will help you through this time of sorrow. I remember your beautiful family when Sebastian and Geno played soccer together. Your husband was always cheering from the sidelines. He will always be with you and the children! God Bless all of you!
Kim and Carol Spahn
July 23, 2014
In this time of great loss may God give your family strength. Sincerely,
Veronica Teuschler
July 23, 2014
We have a bond through training that will last forever. You were there for us when we needed you most. You belived in what we were setting out to do and joined us with a whole hearted support that will never be forgotten. Your faith and your encouragement to me and our school will carry us on. We will miss you Mr. O
Kim and Carol Spahn
July 23, 2014
In this time of great sorrow, may God give your family strength. Sincerely,
Joan Sheldon
July 23, 2014
Robin,
My heart goes out to you. It is hard to believe this could happen to one so young. Will we ever know the mysteries of life? I can only trust that there is more than we now know that has yet to be revealed. So so sorry for your loss. Joan Sheldon
MICHELE EDDIE AND MICHAEL LOTZ
July 23, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. We will surely miss Stefano on the sidelines of our soccer games. He was a good and supportive father. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. If you need anything at all please let me know. Much love to the whole family. XOXO
Karen Donatelli
July 23, 2014
Catherine - I am so so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the sadness you are experiencing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your boys. Hold all of your memories of Stef in your heart always. :)
Geraldine Arizmendi-Saso
July 23, 2014
Dear Catherine,
I am so sorry for your loss..my prayers for you and your family.
Lisa Rodino Seaton
July 23, 2014
I am deeply saddened to hear of Stef's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Stef's family and friends. He touched all those who knew him. His loss is felt by many. His memory will live on in all who loved him.
Stephanie Perri
July 23, 2014
Catherine
My prayers are with you and the boys, may the Lords comfort surround and carry you through this time.
Love and Peace
Sue Drumgould
July 23, 2014
To the Ottaviani Family,
So sorry for your loss. I was a neighbor of Stefano's. He was a very nice person. God Bless
Heather, Mike and Shana Whalen
July 23, 2014
I am so heartbroken to hear of Stef's passing. This world has lost a truly great man. He was kind, thoughtful and passionate about everything he set his mind to. Our thoughts and deepest prayers are with your family.
Wilcox family
July 23, 2014
Our deepest sympathys to you Catherine and families on your loss of Stef. Words can't describe the loss of a loved one. Hope and prayers to all that god will guide you all through this difficult time.
Russ Shaffer
July 23, 2014
Good Bye my old friend. It's a sad day finding out about your passing. To your family I send my best. School would never had been the same with out you.
Grace Burns
July 22, 2014
Catherine, I am heartbroken for you to have lost your love...my prayers are with you and the boys.
john intrieri
July 22, 2014
Words cannot express how heart broken I am for my friend Bruno in this time of pain ,I new Stef at the age of 13 I was 25 when I met his Dad .I can only offer my prayers ,love,and hope for peace for Bruno ,Robin and Stef's wife and children may God help you through this
Kirk and Deanna Rasco
July 22, 2014
Catherine and family,
Words cannot describe how sorry we are to hear of your devastating loss. It was an absolute pleasure to know Stefano and his smile will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
doug galderisi
July 22, 2014
a great man gone but will never be forgotten. always be in our hearts.
Rosanne Feola
July 22, 2014
Robin, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son. I can't even imagine what you are going through. My sincere condolences to you and the family.
Rosanne
Cathy & Cory Gallinger
July 22, 2014
Catherine, Sebastian and family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
July 22, 2014
Catherine and boys : My heart breaks for you. There are no words that can make you feel better. I hope you all will find strengh hope and courage from all the people who loved Stefano/your dad. His smile always showed he had a happy heart. Live with the smile in your hearts when you remember him!! Hugs and more hugs to you ! Love Paulajo Flynn (Mrs.Flynn)
Cheryl
July 22, 2014
Catherine my thoughts and prayers are with you, the boys and your entire family. We are here for you.
Wilma Tully
July 22, 2014
My prayers are with all of you. No words can describe the sadness and heaviness I feel in my heart. I loved him so much and will always remember the times we spent together and our little chats in the shop. It is so hard to believe that he is gone. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, nephew and friend. He cared so much for everyone and I am sure he will continue to watch over and care for all of you. With much Sympathy and Love, Wilma
Mrs. Green
July 22, 2014
To Sebastion, Spencer, Cameron,
Your dad was one in a million.You have so many wonderful memories of your dad and learned so much from him, that will carry on in your lives. One memory I have is when we did the famous talent show at school your dad taught you the moves of Michael Jackson, it was a great act. Your dad always told me how proud he was of you boys and that you and your mom meant the world to him. You are great boys and I know your dad will continue to be so proud of you. I was so honored to have meet you and be your teacher when you where just 3 years old. Who would of known then that my daughter would become one of your good friends. We both are lucky to have meet you. If you every need anything or just want to talk you know where to find me.
stephanie/Alexis Green
July 22, 2014
Ottaviani Family,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you as you go through this difficult time. Stefano was a great guy, an amazing husband and father. He always had a smile on his face and will be greatly missed by his family,friends,community. If you need anything or just want to talk don't hesitate to let us know.
Kathy Robusto
July 22, 2014
Dear Catherine, My heart and thoughts go out to you and your family.
Carol Bogdanowicz-Verdis
July 22, 2014
Dear Catherine,
I am so sorry to hear of your tremendous loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Seth Newman
July 22, 2014
So sorry to hear of the loss of Stefano. My thoughts and prayers are with Catherine and the boys.
Heather Fullum
July 22, 2014
Stefano, you were definitely taken from this world way to soon. I could never put into words what an honor it was to have you in our lives. The memories we have will keep us smiling for years to come. Catherine, I cant even begin to imagine what you are going through. We love you and your boys and if you need anything in this time of need please don't hesitate to ask. We are sorry for your loss and will always be here.
You are loved and most definitely missed.
Heather Fullum
July 22, 2014
Stacy M
July 22, 2014
Catherine, may the memories of your husband help you find peace. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Carol Simonetty
July 22, 2014
I am so, so sorry to hear of Stefano's passing. He was always so nice to my boys and me when we would walk by his shop, and then again at St. Peter's School. My prayers go out to all of the family. God bless you all.
Grace Merkle
July 22, 2014
I am so very sorry for your loss. I hope that you will be able to gain strength from all the love and support from family and friends at this very difficult time. You are all in my prayers
Lisa Beck
July 22, 2014
Catherine, my heart is breaking for you and your family. Please know I am thinking of you always. Sending my love , prayers and condolences.
Shirley Sullivan
July 22, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Chris Sekul
July 22, 2014
Stefano-
You have achieved the impossible. You have left me speechless. There are some things that are just unimaginable and you never expect. You have been taken from us all much too soon. Always a smile and a laugh, a VERY talented and creative guy, a ROCK of a father and husband, and a friend that will be missed beyond the shadow of a doubt. A boat will not leave our dock without thinking of you. Bon voyage my friend. Katherine and the boys, my condolences. You always have part in the family from the docks.
john mihans
July 22, 2014
Stef was the best at his trade and a true gentleman. I used his services many times and always was completely satisfied. He is certainly gone much to soon.. RIP..
Josephine Wilkins
July 22, 2014
It is sad to have to say goodbye to Stefano. I am so grateful to have met him and his wonderful family. I have shared many a laugh with him on the sidelines of soccer games. May he rest in peace.
Jim Winters
July 22, 2014
Stefano it was an honor and privledge to be your friend. I can't begin to tell you how much I will miss hanging out and laughing with you and the boys at the marina. You will be truly missed. To your family my deepest sympathies.
Eileen Sylvia
July 22, 2014
I am so sorry to read about Stefano's passing. I have many wonderful pieces of art work that I've collected during my travels in my home framed by him. I would sometimes spend upwards of 2 hours chatting with him about life and interesting topics as we decided on just the right frame and matting best suited for my art work. His Dad was often times present in the studio and would share his opinions on whatever it was we were chatting about. I am deeply saddened. May he rest in peace. My condolences to the family he adored.
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