A Resting Place for Steve

               Steve Sofia has lived in New City, NY for approximately the last thirty years with his lovely wife, Veronica and their beautiful children Matthew, Stephanie and Camille.  Those of us who were lucky enough to have known him knew that on the outside, he was a bear of a man – but on the inside beat a heart of gold.  He was the kind of person who would do anything for you, and he would do it with a smile on his face.

                Steve never met a challenge that he did not face head on.  Throughout his life, he was the kind of person who would work two or three jobs at a time, seemingly around the clock, to provide for his family.  That is why it was no surprise to anybody that when he was diagnosed with kidney issues a few years ago, Steve did everything humanly possible to beat his condition.   When even that proved to be not enough, Steve was blessed with the gift of hope from Veronica, who without a moment’s hesitation agreed to donate one of her kidneys to him.  While Steve was receiving more and more dialysis treatments, plans for the surgery went on for months as they both were prepared for the procedure.  On June 12, 2018, the day of the surgery finally arrived.  It would not be an easy road for either of them, but knowing that at the end of that long road lay the life together they had always planned on, Steve and Veronica checked into the hospital together to begin the procedure.  I am deeply saddened to say that although Steve’s mind and spirit was up the challenge; his body could no longer fight.  Later that day, at only 54 years old, Steve passed away surrounded by his loving family. 

                As you can imagine, the loss of someone so special, at such a young age, is devastating to his family and those of us who knew and loved him.  The plans that the family had made all focused on Steve getting better, and living happily into old age with Veronica by his side.  There were no plans for a burial place or funeral – who could have ever imagined such plans would be needed?  However, after his long battle with kidney failure, Steve is in need of an eternal resting place.  For those of you who are able to give, any donations to help the family defray these funeral related costs would be gratefully appreciated.  Any excess funds collected will be given to Veronica to help her as she recovers from her surgery.  Thank you.