Stephen J. Vitale
Stephen J. Vitale, of Saint Charles, MO, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on March 14, 2024, at the age of 77. He was born in Verona, Italy, on July 11, 1946. He is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Carmela Vitale, his brother-in-law, Paul Pastorek, and sister-in-law, BC Weiner. Survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Karen Vitale. Lovingly remembered by his two children Tony (Christy) Vitale and Christa (Greg) Blazevic, his five grandchildren, Erica Blazevic, Randi (Connor) Todd, Alexis Blazevic, Nicholas Vitale, and Enzo Vitale. Also survived by sister, Marilyn Pastorek and brother, John Vitale. A loving uncle to his nieces and nephews.
Stephen graduated from Western Military Academy, where a brotherhood was created that has continued on since. He obtained his Bachelors and Masters degree at Fontbonne University. Along with working and retiring from General Motors, Stephen has volunteered for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Lindenwood University, St. Charles Borromeo School and the 1904 World’s Fair Society. With his wife, Karen, he has been a member of the St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish for over 40 years and has been a member of the choir every Sunday. He also sang in the Archdiocesan Choir of St. Louis that performed for the Pope in Rome.
After his family and faith, he had a strong relationship with soccer. Not only has Stephen played the game, he coached the St. Charles Borromeo girls team; refereed, trained and assessed upcoming referees; and spectated many games that his children and grandchildren participated in.
A service will be on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 11 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish at 601 N. 4th Street, St. Charles, MO 63301, followed by a luncheon.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul through St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish.
Cali and I were grateful to have met Stephen. Such a lovely man. He will be carried in our memories and hearts always. We send our condolences, love and hugs to the whole family xx
Mike and I have many happy memories of time spent with Steve and Karen at our house and theirs. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed by family and friends. Steve’s family are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve was a great cadet and a great soccer player at Western Military Academy. We will all miss our brother. Such a great guy.
Steve and I met on the third floor of “E” barracks at Western Military Academy in 1962. We were both first year cadets and graduated together in 1964. For sixty years our close friendship has remained. Steve and I and our cadet brothers are a family and Steve will be greatly missed. Well done old friend, well done.
Farewell to a good friend and fellow alumni . I feel fortunate to have known him..
RIP Steve
Steve played key roles in helping me become the best soccer referee I could be, and I will always appreciate him for that.
Steve an I were classmates in grade school he was joyful and kind as a friend throughout his life.Just a great guy to all.He is in my thoughts and
Steve and I were referees and assessors in both USSF and College arenas. While I was Sad for Missouri I relied on Steve many times he will be missed. I am truly sore for your loss.
Steve will be truly missed by all who knew him. I have a lot of great memories with Steve through soccer and golfing. Steve, I’ve got some good news and some bad news. Yes Steve there’s soccer in heaven, your playing tomorrow ⚽️🥰God bless you my friend ✝️
I was very blessed to have Steve as a friend! We sang together for many years in the Archdiocesan Choir and also for the Pope in Rome. I will never forget his kindness when I had cancer several years ago. Steve offered to pray for me. I will always be grateful. And recently I got to pray for him and with him and with Karen. I’m sure the Lord has said to Steve: “Well done! good and faithful servant!” Now that Steve is with the Lord and all illness is left behind, he can send us blessings and continue his legacy as a faithful friend to so many!