Stephen Safarik

Stephen Safarik, age 94, of Maspeth, NY, and recently of Perryville, MD, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, November 24, 2013. A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Steve instilled deep values and a strong work ethic in his family. Born in the former Czechoslovakia, Steve immigrated to the United States at age 3. He was the son of the late Stephen and Irene Safarik. Steve was a member of a Hungarian dance troop and performed at the 1939 New York World's Fair. A proud veteran of the United States Army, he served in World War II as a radio repairman in the 28th Infantry Regiment - 8th Div. Reconnaissance Troop, which included service at the Battle of Normandy. After receiving his honorable discharge, he had a successful career with Mainco Elevator & Electrical Corp. in New York City. Steve was a longtime resident of Maspeth, NY, before moving in with his daughter Pam in Perryville, MD, in 2010. Family meant everything to Steve. Beyond his passion for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, Steve loved listening to music, dancing, travelling, writing memoirs, and working on his computer. He was a parishioner of Holy Cross Roman Catholic Church in Maspeth, NY, whose deep faith brought him much comfort in life. Steve is survived by his daughter, Pam Spelker of Perryville, MD; son, Stephen and wife Peggy Safarik of Conway, SC; son, Gregory Safarik of Bethel, CT; and brother, John Safarik of Richmond, VA. He had seven grandchildren: Benjamin Safarik, Kimberly Hanlin, Lisa Spelker-Wild, Melanie Irving, Michelle Safarik, Stephanie Safarik, and William Spelker. He had six great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wives, Katherine Safarik (1945-1950) and Anna Safarik (1952-1997) as well as his sister, Margaret Long. A mass, funeral service, and burial will be held on a future date in Queens, NY. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Amedisys Hospice Care at www.amedisys.com or Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org.