Stefan Macko

Stefan Macko

Stefan Macko passed away at his home in Olympia on November 21, 2009. He is survived by his brother, John Macko (Marilyn); daughters, Leslie Ruth Macko, Lorin Lampe Jones (William), Lisa Pauline Macko-Peterson (Steve), and Lynn Elizabeth Macko; grandchildren, Kerri Buyco (Ven), Lindsay Lampe, Ryan Lampe (Sarah), Evan Peterson, Joanne Peterson; great-granddaughter Tyler Lampe; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends. Stefan was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Pauline Macko; brothers, Anthony, Samuel, and Joseph Macko; and wife, Joanne Giese Macko.
Stefan ("Steve") was born October 19, 1926 in Racine, Wisconsin, where he graduated from Washington Park High School in 1945. He served his country in the US Navy aboard the Destroyer, USS Mustin as Quartermaster Third Class.
Stefan went on to study business and law at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he met Joanne Giese. He graduated with the Class of 1953, received the The Juris Doctor in 1966, and later became Alumni Emeritus of the Wisconsin State Bar.
Stefan and Joanne married in 1949, and moved to Milwaukee to raise their daughters. He was employed by Miller Brewing Company in labor relations. In 1962, Stefan joined Rainier Brewery in Seattle. Stefan and Joanne appreciated the beauty of the Northwest landscape, and were avid gardeners.
In 1970, Stefan returned to Miller Brewing Company. As Director of Corporate Planning and Director of Packaging Development, he became an expert in the industry. He was passionate about his work, and strove for excellence. Stefan felt privileged to know many wonderful colleagues and friends during his travels across America and Europe.
After retiring, Stefan joined the US Peace Corps, and served as business advisor to government and youth in Fiji from 1992-94. Stefan's determination to help others led him to design a village waiting center adjacent to a community hospital in Tailevu Province, that became known as Macko House.
Stefan was a kind, compassionate gentleman with a quiet smile and subtle wit. He was our wise counsel and our tower of strength. Stefan loved his family deeply, and was deeply loved in return.
"- good night, sweet prince; and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!"
A memorial service will be held Sunday, December 6, 2009 at 12:00 p.m. at Mills & Mills Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 5725 Littlerock Rd, SW, Tumwater.