Mike Stepek

Mike "Micho" Stepek, 95, of Ohio Street in Stowe Township, passed away on November 5th, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family from natural causes. Mike was born in McKees Rocks on November 28th, 1929, a son of John and Mary (Fenio) Sczerbeck. He grew up in Presston and graduated from Stowe High School in 1948. On December 2nd, 1956 he married the love of his life, Mary Zanis Stepek.

Mike proudly served his nation in the Army during the Korean War. After returning home, he dedicated 38 years to Levinson Steel as a crane operator, where he also took on the important role of Union Stewart, advocating for the rights and welfare of his fellow workers. His strong sense of duty and fairness was recognized and respected by all who knew him.

Mike had a great love for the outdoors. He found joy in hunting and fishing, not for the game or catch, but for the cherished tradition and the precious time spent with his family. His passion for nature was matched by his love for his Camp in Tionesta, where he spent countless hours.

A man of faith and service, Mike was a Life Member of Independent Hose Company #5, where he served as a Lieutenant and Trustee. His dedication to his community was further exemplified by his active involvement at St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church in the McKees Rocks Bottoms. As the Vice President for many years, he was a familiar face at church events, especially on Fridays when he could be found making Pierogi with his church family.

Preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Zanis, and siblings Matthew (Biff), Nicholas (Nicky), Joseph (Cookie), Anna (Peter) Lysko, and Rose (Ed) Pecanis, and his special friend Dee Shuhilo. Mike's memory will be treasured and kept alive by those who survive him. His sister Irene Pellatiro (Sam, deceased) and brother John (Marge), along with numerous nieces and nephews, will remember him fondly.

Mike's legacy as a family man is immortalized through his children, Michael (Marcia) and Mary Ann (Martin) Candee, and his grandchildren, Michael Jr. (Nicole), Melissa (Jeffery) Castello, Martin (Brooklyn) Candee, Katarina (Anthony) Candee-Pineda and great grandchildren John, Bryan, Callie Ann, and Maverick.

Mike Stepek lived a life of honor, service, and love. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide his family, friends, and community. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure.

Family and friends are welcome to the Szal Funeral Home, Inc. on Sunday November 9, 2025 from 12:00 noon to 8:00 pm where Parastas will be held at 2:00 pm and a fireman's service will be held at 6:00 pm. Additional viewing will be held on Monday November 10, 2025 from 10:00 am to 10:45 where a Panahida Service will begin at 10:45 am followed by the Funeral Service at St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church at 11:00 am. Interment will be held at St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery.

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