Obituary of Stephen Samuel Caparco

In Loving Memory of Stephen "Steve" S. Caparco

Stephen "Steve" S. Caparco, a devoted husband, loving father, dedicated brother, and an extraordinary man, passed away on October 18, 2023. He was born on May 17, 1948, to his parents Lewis and Jacqueline Caparco.

Steve is survived by a loving family who adored him. He leaves behind his cherished wife of 50 years, Pamela Caparco, a daughter, Melinda Caparco, and brothers Mark, Dave (Roseann), and Garry, along with his sister, Lorie Hasselkus (Dave Hasselkus). He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Laurie Gudgel (Dana Mitchell), his mother-in-law, Joanne Holt, and his beloved godson, Justin Hasselkus, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A true patriot, Steve answered the call to duty during the Vietnam War, where he served with honor and distinction from April 1968 until October 1969 in the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Corps, 3rd Division Lima Company. Steve's remarkable leadership skills were evident as he quickly rose in rank to become Sergeant E5. He was a dedicated rifleman who earned several medals, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Rifle Expert Badge, and Navy Commendation Medal. His service came at a cost, as he was drenched in Agent Orange on five occasions. Despite an injury sustained during his service, Steve humbly declined the Purple Heart, believing he was merely doing his duty to his country.

Upon returning to civilian life, Steve continued his commitment to hard work, dedicating himself to a career at General Motors for 36 years, where he excelled as a supervisor in the window wiper division. Despite enduring health issues related to his military service later in life, he never complained and always placed the well-being of others before himself.

Steve's true joy in life was found in hosting family and friends at his cherished Lamoka Lake house, a home he painstakingly built with his own hands. An avid outdoorsman, he relished hunting, fishing, boating, and waterskiing. He was also passionate about playing and coaching in multiple softball leagues.

Steve's generosity was boundless. He freely shared his time, talents, and resources with those around him, especially when it came to teaching others about outdoor activities. With an abundance of patience and unwavering attention, he brought joy to everyone he taught. And when the day's activities were over, he would fire up the grill, treating everyone to a feast.

In 2022, Steve received the President's Award from the Bradford Volunteer Fire Department, recognizing his significant contributions and the positive impact he had on the lives of those in need.

A celebration of Steve's remarkable life, with a Military Graveside Service, will be held at the Bath National Cemetery in Bath, NY on Friday, October 27, 2023 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Greenwood United Methodist Church, located on Main Street/Route 248 in Greenwood, NY 14839.

Stephen Caparco's life was a testament to duty, service, and generosity, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.