Update 2/22/26

From Michelle:

Dear Friends and Family,

Steve's Mass will be held on Thursday, March 26th at 11am at Saint Anne's Catholic Church - 340 10th Street, Seal Beach, CA 90740. We understand that many family members and friends may not be able to travel out of state. The church offers live-streaming of the service, and I will share that information as soon as it becomes available.

Following the Mass, those who wish are welcome to join us at Steve's favorite pub on Main Street, O'Malley's to share memories, stories, food and a toast in his honor.❤️

Updated: 2/13/26

With deep sorrow, we share that Steve passed away peacefully at home at 2:10am, surrounded by Michelle, John, and Bobby. In a message on CaringBridge, Michelle shared that today is exactly six weeks from the day Steve was admitted to the hospital — three weeks spent there and three weeks at home. Michelle reflected that this disease was so cruel that it did not even give Steve the chance to fight. Yet through it all, he remained his beautiful self, somehow finding humor even in the most uncomfortable moments.

Michelle shared an anecdote that had Steve exclaiming, “Mickey, if anything happens to me, I had a blast.” Those words perfectly capture a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and brought joy to so many. When you think of Steve, remember that — he truly had a blast.

Michelle is currently planning a mass in California and will share details once they are available.

As the family faces both profound grief and the financial realities that follow, the funds raised will continue to help with the burdens from Steve’s illness, the services that honor his life, and the stability Michelle and the boys will need in the days ahead. Thank you for the extraordinary love, prayers, and support surrounding them — a powerful reminder they are not walking this path alone.

Caring bridge link

ORIGINAL STORY:

Steve was recently diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), a very rare and rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disorder. CJD is caused by misfolded prion proteins that damage brain cells, leading to a 'spongy' appearance in the brain. This devastating disease causes severe dementia, involuntary movements, and, heartbreakingly, is always fatal—often within just a few months of symptom onset. There is no known cure, and treatment is focused on comfort and managing symptoms.

After much consideration, Steve’s family made the difficult decision to bring him home with hospice care so he can be surrounded by loved ones. Michelle, Steve’s devoted wife, has become his full-time caretaker, leaving her job to care for him around the clock. Together, they have two sons, Bobby and John, who are also facing this unimaginable challenge.

Funds collected through this fundraiser will go directly to supporting Michelle and the boys as they care for Steve. Your donation will help cover daily living expenses, medical costs, and provide some stability for the family during this incredibly difficult time. Any support—whether through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser—will make a meaningful difference for Steve, Michelle, Bobby, and John. Your kindness and generosity are deeply appreciated as they navigate this heartbreaking journey.