He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Deborah Kay Schroeder (Reedy), his parents Richard L. and Janet A. Schroeder and niece Lauren Schroeder. They now reside in heaven in all the happiness and glory it provides.
As a young man, Stephen developed an affection for sports and was a constant fixture at Nutter Field in Beavercreek, as a young, vibrant athlete. As a “big” guy for his age, his physical presence combined with his talent made him an imposing player on and off the field. Later in life, these attributes would lead to his common nickname of “Big Steve”. His love and passion for sports continued into his teen and young adult years as he pursued slow pitch softball and played many tournaments and leagues with friends that would turn out to be lifelong relationships.
During that time, Stephen also developed an affinity for harness racing. He figured out at a young age how to read a racing form, handicap the race and have success at the track, making small bets turn into big wins. His love of horses turned into a project with his mother, Janet, and into ownership of several horses, racing the fair circuit as well as local tracks such as Lebanon Raceway, Latonia Park and others. He would often describe the days ‘at the track’ as being “the most fun he could ever have”.
As life progressed, “Big Steve” continued his love of the outdoors as well. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. Many stories were created at deer camp, fishing holes and wherever else he could enjoy the beauty and bounty of nature and the peacefulness it provided.
Sports, always being his bedrock, developed him into the lifelong Cleveland Browns fan that any franchise would be happy to have. Spelling out stats and voicing opinions on the team as it went through its ups and downs was a very good way to speak with Steve for hours. And, being “Big Steve”, you knew how he felt about his team and his opinion. The passion was evident.
That love for sports continued as he became involved in his niece’s softball career. He would frequently offer his time to be an assistant coach as well as take time to do
1-on-1 coaching, reinforcing skills in those young athletes, with the skills and knowledge that came natural to him. Those memories according to Steve were some of his most satisfying times as he was able to give back to young adults.
Family was everything to Steve, he was not a social butterfly but, if he met you and you got through the persona of “Big Steve” you found he was a big teddy bear. The teddy bear ended up being a symbol of love and gratitude between his wife and close family. This man will be sorely missed, and his impact on the lives of the people he touched will always be remembered.
Stephen leaves behind a younger sister Deborah Roark (Tim), younger brother Michael Schroeder (Tammy) and son Chris Young (Amanda). As well as grandsons Chandler and Gavin, nieces and nephews; Kimberly Ditty (Kyle), Seana Lambdin (Cory), and Allison Schroeder, great-nieces and nephews; Olivia, Jacob, Reigna and Bella and numerous cousins. All of them grieve his passing.
Visitation from friends and family will be held August 17th from 5-7 pm at Tobias Funeral home in Beavercreek. Donations if desired can be submitted in Steve’s name to Hospice of Dayton, if so desired.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.tobias-fh.com for the Schroeder family.
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Hospice of Dayton324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45420
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