Leon (Lee) Steczynski, 83, passed away April 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in 1941 in Chicago, Ill.
Lee attended Lisle High School in Lisle, Ill. After graduating in 1959, he served in the United States Air Force as a Data Processing Machine Operator until 1963. He was stationed in Altus, Okla., and in Casablanca, Morocco. Lee began his career at Standard Oil Company in Chicago, Ill., as an IBM systems programmer. He was later employed at Midas International in Chicago as Director of Information Services, where he spent the majority of his career. During this time, Lee attended night school to earn, in 1973, a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from Roosevelt University, Chicago. After moving to Lawrenceburg, Ind., in 1991, Lee worked for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Cincinnati, Ohio, until his retirement in 2002.
Lee was a pillar of strength for his family, whom he loved fiercely. A man of deep faith, he modeled a Christ-centered life through his actions, words, and unwavering integrity. He believed in hard work and discipline, offering guidance, wisdom, and encouragement to those around him. Lee’s sharp wit and sense of humor brought joy and laughter to countless moments over the years. A brilliant mathematician and gifted orator, he took great pride in sharing his knowledge and insight with others. His remarkable foresight and thoughtful nature made him a trusted friend and a steady presence in the lives of many.
Lee was a constant presence in his children’s lives, faithfully supporting their academics and extracurricular activities throughout their childhood years. He often left work and went directly to the baseball/softball fields, being the only man in the stands wearing a suit! He continued to support his children throughout their adult years, offering steady guidance, a listening ear, and steadfast encouragement through each new chapter of their lives – from college decisions and career changes to marriages and parenthood. His presence was both grounding and uplifting, a steady anchor through life’s many changes. Lee loved the great outdoors and found joy in fishing, snow skiing, golfing and running. Never one to shy away from adventure, Lee took up skydiving at age 66, making his final jump at age 80. One of his most cherished traditions was dressing up as Santa Claus each Christmas, delighting his grandchildren with personal visits in a full, authentic Santa suit to deliver their gifts.
Lee is survived by his four children, Kimberly (Paul) Haritopoulos, Karrie Irons, Jason (Dana) Steczynski, and Joel (Jodi) Steczynski; spouse of 14 years, Janice Miskiewicz; grandchildren Kallie Haritopoulos, Andreanna (Matthew) McCaulley, MacKenzie and Abigail Irons, Tyler and Ryan Steczynski, Alex, Colleen, Ella and Will Steczynski; sister Joan (Mike) Ansteth; and nephews Nicholas (Klaudyna) Serritella and Christopher Serritella. Lee was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years, Patricia A. Steczynski; sister Geraldine Serritella; and parents Henry and Irene Stanek.
Private services will take place April 24, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Kilgroe Funeral Home, Leeds, Ala., followed by burial at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Leeds, where Lee will be laid to rest with his beloved Patricia. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Grace Hospice, Cincinnati.
LEON STECZYNSKI
