“I never had it so good.” I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.2 Timothy 4:7 Stephen Macchia passed away peacefully Sep 15, 2017, after a year long battle with cancer. He was blessed to have family and friends at his side. Steve grew up in Whittier with his older brother Vito and parents Nick Macchia and Verna Faye. He was drafted into the US Army and went to Vietnam. He then studied English at CSUF, and began to work for his father-in-law Ed Vesely Jr. at EK Vesely Acoustics. A wonderful provider for his family, he then worked at LA Door, La Habra as Senior Estimator and Project Manager again in the Carpenters Union. His passions were his family, wife, Laura Macchia and son, David Macchia. Married on Feb 2,1974, Steve & Laura shared many adventures early in their marriage. Camping, traveling, especially to Kauai, snorkeling at Tunnels Beach. Steve loved carrying the American and Italian flag to the 1984 Olympics. A highlight was the boxing matches at the Sports Arena with the flags, stirring up the crowds. The World Cup in LA and Bumbershoot in Seattle were other such occasions. Steve began flying his super big kites at the International Kite Festival, and even Indian Fighter Kites. He was interested in learning, and meeting people, and passing on what he learned, and especially in being the comedian. Steve changed our lives when he became sober in Sep. 1986. The realization that this was such a miracle made a profound impact on his life and he began sharing with others the program that he was given so freely. This became a community of people that cared deeply for each other and became family and friends. As Steve received love from others and from God, he gave love to others in a way that created a legacy that will live on in them. He often said, “ has anyone said they love you today? Well, let me be the first.” In 1995, Steve & Laura’s son David was born and became the joy of their lives. Steve loved playing baseball, throwing the football at the beach with David, helping with school projects, especially Science Olympiad Scrambler competitions. Steve took his family on vacation in Yosemite in 2014, and to another favorite place: walking the greens at Pebble Beach in 2015, David met Cassidy at APU, studied together and even fell in love. In May 2017, David & Cassidy graduated from APU and Steve made sure he was there to see them. On Aug 2, David & Cassidy became engaged and the entire family was thrilled. Steve totally embraced the plans David had to get his Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Samuel Merritt University. Steve’s other major passion was coaching in Little League, East Fullerton & Golden Hill. He loved teaching the young kids how to love baseball as he did. He also taught his young players the John Wooden Pyramid of Success. As time went on he turned to umpiring, but kept instructing the kids on the field and making the game fun. Steve’s calling was to umpire. There was no doubt about that. Constantly teaching others to come along and join in. Having fun wherever he went, Steve would always say, “It’s a beautiful day for baseball.” The family is entirely grateful to Cassidy Falsetti for caring for Steve that last week, with love and compassion, beyond her years. Also to family Vito, Aunt Angie, Debbie Goman, Paul & Cindy Spindle, and many friends Sean, Dave, Brian, Frank and others at his side at his passing. Steve is survived by his loving & dedicated older brother Vito Macchia, his wife Adele, son Vito Jr., daughters JoDee & Gina. JoDee’s husband James Johnson, and daughter Alexandra. Gina’s husband Gerry Longnecker, sons Jayson West and Dawson. Steve is also survived by his adorable Aunt Angie, and cousins Debbie Goman & Dennie Bryan, Samantha & John.Also survived by his step-brother Paul Spindle, wife Cindy Spindle and daughter Lindsey. Lindsey will always “love her Uncle Malarky”. With gratitude to David & Cassidy for spending the summer with mom & dad. Please know that your dad will live in your heart forever. A special gratitude to Laura’s family, mom Patsy Vesely, sisters Carroll, Kim, & Renee, along with their families : Emily & Paula; husband Ramon, Eddy & Patsy, Zachary & Heather with dogs & horses will miss Steve very much. They were incredible support to Laura during her hospital stay at a most unfortunate time. "There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.” Mahatma Gandhi
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