Every so often, a person comes along who leaves a mark on their community so profound, it’s felt long after they’re gone. Stephen “Steve” Odierno, a devoted alumnus and the Director of Marketing at Saint Joseph Regional High School (SJR), was one of those people. His sudden passing at the age of 50 on April 22, 2025, has left an irreplaceable void not just in his family’s life, but also in the hearts of students, colleagues, friends, and the entire SJR family.
In this tribute, we’ll take a heartfelt journey through the life and legacy of Steve Odierno—his work, values, family life, and the powerful way he brought people together.
Steve Odierno Obituary
1. A Life Rooted in Brotherhood
Steve Odierno wasn’t just a graduate of SJR—he embodied the spirit of brotherhood that the school promotes. From the moment he stepped on campus as a student in the early ’90s, to his time as a dedicated staff member decades later, Steve never lost his love for the school. Brotherhood wasn’t just a motto for him; it was how he lived.
2. The SJR Legacy: From Student to Leader
Graduating in 1993, Steve’s journey came full circle when he returned to serve his alma mater in a leadership role. There’s something special about someone who chooses to come back and build up the very place that helped shape them. That was Steve—rooted in tradition but always forward-thinking.
3. His Role as Director of Marketing
Behind every great school is someone who knows how to tell its story, and Steve did just that as SJR’s Director of Marketing. From coordinating campaigns to celebrating student wins, Steve had a keen eye for detail and a heart full of pride in his work. His impact was not just in the content he produced, but in the spirit he infused into every piece of it.
4. More Than a Job: A Mission of Service
For Steve, his role wasn’t about titles or accolades. It was about service to a greater good. He was always willing to lend a hand, support a student’s dream, or celebrate a teacher’s milestone. His work was woven with care, love, and integrity.
5. A Proud Father and Family Pillar
Steve’s greatest pride was his family. He was the loving father of Steven Odierno (Class of 2023) and Katherine Odierno (Class of 2025, IHA). Whether attending events, cheering from the sidelines, or just being there for his kids, Steve was the definition of a hands-on, supportive parent.
6. Steve Odierno: The Community Builder
Many people knew Steve as a colleague or fellow parent, but they quickly became friends. His personality was magnetic—his conversations, genuine. He built bridges between families, alumni, faculty, and students, leaving a trail of friendship and trust wherever he went.
7. A Presence That Couldn’t Go Unnoticed
Whether it was his welcoming smile at open houses or his work behind the scenes during big events, Steve’s presence was unmistakable. You didn’t need to know him long to feel the warmth of his character and the depth of his commitment.
8. Mourning the Loss Across Generations
From current students to alumni from decades past, the news of Steve’s passing was felt deeply. Stories, photos, and memories flooded in—testaments to the many lives he touched over the years.
9. Services to Honor a Life of Impact
The community has come together to celebrate Steve’s life:
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Wake: April 24, 3:00–7:00 PM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, Wyckoff, NJ
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Funeral Mass: April 25, 10:30 AM at St. Elizabeth’s Church, Wyckoff, NJ
These services are more than ceremonies—they are opportunities to give thanks, share memories, and support one another through grief.
10. Monday Mass: A Tribute of Unity
On April 28, SJR will begin the school day with a special Mass to honor Steve. Students will wear dress shirts and ties—a small but meaningful gesture. It’s a symbol of respect for a man who gave so much of himself to the school and its mission.
11. Everlasting Footprints at SJR
Buildings may change, but the spirit of people like Steve remains. His influence is seen in the growth of the school, the unity of its people, and the mission he helped further every single day.
12. The Power of Presence in Everyday Life
Steve had a quiet superpower—being present. Whether celebrating someone else’s success or lending an ear, he knew how to make others feel seen and supported. It’s that simple presence that many will miss the most.
13. His Enduring Influence on Students
Students often saw him not just as a staff member, but as a mentor and role model. His support, encouragement, and belief in the next generation will continue to resonate in the halls of SJR.
14. How the Community Can Keep His Legacy Alive
Want to honor Steve? Live like he did. Serve others. Show up. Be kind. Take pride in your community. Whether you’re a student, parent, or alum, we can all carry a piece of Steve’s legacy forward.
15. Final Thoughts
In life, we meet people who change us forever. Steve Odierno was one of those people. While his physical presence may be gone, his legacy of love, leadership, and loyalty lives on. He taught us the value of connection and the strength of community. May his memory continue to be a blessing.
FAQs
1. Who was Steve Odierno?
Steve Odierno was an alumnus of Saint Joseph Regional High School (Class of 1993) and served as the school’s Director of Marketing. He was known for his dedication, warmth, and lasting impact on the school community.
2. What was Steve Odierno’s role at SJR?
He served as the Director of Marketing, where he promoted the school’s achievements and helped build connections with students, families, and alumni.
3. How did the school honor Steve’s memory?
The school is hosting a wake and funeral, along with a tribute Mass. Students will dress formally on April 28 to show respect.
4. What was Steve’s influence on the community?
Steve was a unifying force, known for his warmth, service, and ability to connect deeply with others. His influence was felt across generations at SJR.
5. How can I honor Steve Odierno’s legacy?
You can honor his legacy by embodying the values he lived by—kindness, commitment, service, and love for community.
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