Steve Hart

Steve Hart (Kenneth S. Hart, Sr) died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on November 17. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susan (Gjukis) Hart, son and daughter-in-law Ken and Kris Hart, daughter and son-in-law Heather and Brian Greene, grandsons Kyle (Megan) Hart, Kevin (Jessica) Hart, and Benjamin Greene.

He was born September 3, 1943 in Battle Creek, MI, graduated from Battle Creek High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in math from Valparaiso University. During his career he worked in the computer department (now called IT) at Security National Bank which became Comerica in Battle Creek. His work there included assisting with the launch of “cutting edge technology” - the ATM machine. In the 80’s he and his family moved to Lilburn, GA to work with FFMC, where he was a pivotal member of the company softball team for several years.

Steve was a life-long Episcopalian and member of St. Michael and All Angels church in Stone Mountain for almost four decades. He served in many roles in the church, his favorite being a lay reader and chalice bearer. His faith in God was the guiding force of his life and his mantra was “This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Steve was a very active member of the Lions Club International for more than 30 years. During 2002-2003, he served as the District Governor for Lions Club District 18-D, traveling state to visit and support Lions working to help the visually impaired and serve their communities. He held many positions with the Lions but more than anything he was ready and willing to help however he could. Whether it was making snow cones or funnel cakes, selling white canes or pecans, he would don the bright yellow vest and eagerly volunteer.

Steve met Susan at the A&W Drive-In and his opening line was, “I have all of the Kingston Trio Albums” (unbeknownst to him, Susan didn’t own a record player) but it worked, and they married a few months later. Together they spent 56 years living, loving, and having many, many adventures. He was a fantastic father - not only to his own children, but to whoever showed up at Sunday dinner. His absolute greatest joy was his grandsons and without a doubt he was the World’s Best Grandpa.

Besides his family, his great love was baseball, especially the Detroit Tigers. One of his greatest experiences was participating in the Tiger Fantasy Baseball Camp as a catcher for Mickey Lolich during a game. He took many trips to Spring Training, to visit stadiums, and to the Baseball Hall of Fame, culminating in attending the induction of favorite Tiger Players Alan Trammell and Jack Morris accompanied by his son and oldest grandsons.

Steve was known for his quiet nature and wonderful sense of humor. While it can’t be proven, it is believed he was the originator of ‘bad dad jokes’ and his puns were legendary. He loved the Sunday comics, doing crossword puzzles, and had a personal goal to complete the newspaper’s daily jumble in his head.

The family will receive visitors Tuesday, November 24 from 2:00-4:00 pm at Eternal Hills Funeral Home on Stone Mountain Hwy. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, November 25 at 10:00 am at St Michael and All Angels Church, Stone Mountain. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the charity of your choice or Special Olympics Georgia (specialolympicsga.org) or the Atlanta Mission (atlantamission.org).