Stephen J. Matjasic, Jr., known to many as “Big Steve,” passed away on November 8, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, PA after a period of declining health.
Born on March 19, 1948, at Harrisburg Hospital to Steve and Frances Matjasic (Lappano), Steve grew up in Steelton and later made his home in the Hershey area, where he raised his family. He dedicated 33 years of service to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Steve loved his family, movies, music, technology, meteorology, and his dogs, Max and Sydney. He especially treasured family trips to destinations such as Hawaii, Jekyll Island, Hilton Head Island, and Disney World.
He is survived by his son, Jason Matjasic, daughter-in-law Adrienne, and grandsons Aaron and Aidan; his daughter, Laura Matjasic, and granddaughter Anna; his sister, Sandra Braderman, brother-in-law Jay, nephew Brian, niece Kara, along with several cousins and extended family members.
Under Steve’s high school yearbook photo, a line reads: “The taller you are, the closer you are to Heaven.” At 6 feet 6½ inches tall, the phrase was once a lighthearted nod to his stature. Presently, it stands as a meaningful reminder of the peace his family believes he rests in now.
Those who wish to honor Steve’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to Penn Vet Working Dog Center Fund, or an animal-related charity of your choice.
Born on March 19, 1948, at Harrisburg Hospital to Steve and Frances Matjasic (Lappano), Steve grew up in Steelton and later made his home in the Hershey area, where he raised his family. He dedicated 33 years of service to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Steve loved his family, movies, music, technology, meteorology, and his dogs, Max and Sydney. He especially treasured family trips to destinations such as Hawaii, Jekyll Island, Hilton Head Island, and Disney World.
He is survived by his son, Jason Matjasic, daughter-in-law Adrienne, and grandsons Aaron and Aidan; his daughter, Laura Matjasic, and granddaughter Anna; his sister, Sandra Braderman, brother-in-law Jay, nephew Brian, niece Kara, along with several cousins and extended family members.
Under Steve’s high school yearbook photo, a line reads: “The taller you are, the closer you are to Heaven.” At 6 feet 6½ inches tall, the phrase was once a lighthearted nod to his stature. Presently, it stands as a meaningful reminder of the peace his family believes he rests in now.
Those who wish to honor Steve’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to Penn Vet Working Dog Center Fund, or an animal-related charity of your choice.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Stephen J. Matjasic, Jr., please visit our flower store.
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