Steven Joseph Smialek Jr., loving, generous man
Steven Joseph Smialek Jr. of Milton passed away peacefully at home in the presence of loved ones Sunday, April 16, 2017 at the age of 73. Born in Wilmington, April 6, 1944, he later moved with his family to Milton, where he attended Milton School until 1959, after which he moved to Chicago, Ill., where he graduated from Lane Tech High School in 1962.
He joined the U.S. Marine Corps after graduation and served for six years. Steven served in the Vietnam War and was the recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. He was discharged in 1968, achieving the rank of sergeant. After his service, he held successful management positions at various corporations until his retirement from Atlantis Industries, located in Milton, in 2006 where he held the position of general manager.
Steven married Mary Elizabeth Barker (Smialek) May 3, 1997, in Milton at White's Chapel. They had been lovingly married for 19 years. Steven was a member of the Lions Club in Illinois and the American Legion Post 28. He took a great deal of pride in his time served in the U.S. Marine Corps and had many stories to share. He enjoyed fishing and baseball, as well as spending time with his family and friends, particularly his granddaughters and his great-grandson.
Steven was preceded in death by his father, Steven Joseph Smialek Sr., and mother Mary Hamer Smialek.
Steven is lovingly remembered and cherished by his wife, Mary Smialek; his daughter, Michelle (and husband Phil) Vitellaro and stepson Todd (and wife Susan) Mitchell; his brother, Tom (and wife Debbie) Smialek; his granddaughters, Lindsay (and husband Aaron) Titerence and Jenna Mitchell; and his great-grandson, Noah Reed.
Steven was known for being a kind, loving and generous man. Quick with a joke and a smile, he was always there for anyone who needed help. He was a great man; he will be missed every day and loved forever.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, April 22, at 1 p.m., in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, where friends may call after 11 a.m. Burial will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Milton.
