Obituary of Stephen "Steve" Michael Kurpe

In Loving Memory of Stephen ‘Steve’ Michael Kurpe 

July 3rd 1932 - December 31st 2023

Peacefully and surrounded by family, Steve passed away at 91 years young. Predeceased by his beloved wife Alice in 2002. Loving father to his two daughters Linda Fralick and her husband Gary & Terry Hunink and her husband Jim. A devoted grandfather to Tara Kurpe, Kristel Vieira (Josh), Alyssa Krajcik (Kevin) & Jaimee Hunink. He was a very proud and adored great grandfather (GiGi) to Grace, Isaac, Owen & Everly. Dear brother of Irene Forsyth (Bob). Predeceased by his brother Frank and parents, Irma and Frank. Brother-in-law to Ernie and Sandy Toth and the late Helen Andreeff. Predeceased by Alex and Violet Bendes; Andy (Bea) and Margaret Toth. Cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Steve will also be missed by his loving companion Margaret Hamilton and her children Lynn, Leslie & Ian. He will be fondly remembered by many friends as well. 

Steve was born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario. He had a successful career as a welder/Foreman and worked in Hamilton at Dofasco (ArcelorMittal) for 40 years. Steve loved travelling, fishing, camping in Algonquin park, vacationing in the Florida Keys, playing scrabble, making steel work art & in his later years, he developed an interest and talent in painting. 

Admired by so many, Steve had such a friendly, charming and happy charisma. His smile was contagious and optimism was his way of life. He was a role model to others with his positive outlook. Steve had many talents that he would often use to stay busy and bring joy to other people. He enjoyed welding and made beautiful artwork with steel. Just to name a few pieces of the impressive work that Steve made include a woodstove, sleigh and a roasting spit. Steve also remodelled/built his own house and inground pool. He renovated two vans into camper vans too. Welded trees were his most popular and unique design. He would love to create artwork for his family and friends. 

Steve loved being social while frequently hosting family and friend get togethers at his house in Vinemount, Ont. He would share memories of the good times that he had with his close-knit crew of friends “The Gang”. Fond memories of fish fries, bocce ball, lawn darts, card games, Christmas Eve parties & swimming at Steve's house will always be cherished. Steve loved cooking and would often make schnitzel and his staple ‘chicken noodle soup’ for his family. He would like to make desserts from his Hungarian descent like chetiga and kiflis. He was also a King of the BBQ. 

Steve will always be remembered as such a loving and caring family man. He was very grateful for so much throughout his life and set a powerful example to others. His smile, visits, telephone calls & voicemails will truly be missed. Steve loved life and lived every day that he was given to the fullest. He has gone to be with The Lord and lives on eternally. Steve continues to live in our hearts and we look forward to the day when we will see him again.

The family would like to sincerely thank the dedicated nursing staff and all of the workers at Deer Park Villa & Suites in Grimsby, Ontario for their care and compassion towards Steve. A special thankyou to Steve’s wonderful neighbour friends, especially his euchre group, at Deer Park Villa. Steve loved them all and they were another important reason as to why Steve enjoyed the last two years of his life so much – he was able to remain social.  The family would also like to thank Dr. Khoo and the Niagara West Palliative Care Team for all of their genuine care, involvement and helpful support.