Stephen O’Shea of Monroe passed peacefully into eternal life on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020.
Stephen was born May 30, 1964, in Kenmare, Co. Kerry, Ireland.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Cathie (O’Shea) O’Shea; sons Kieran and Stephen Jr.; daughter Erin Lynn; son-in-law Eddie McLaughlin; mother Joan O’Shea; brothers Noel, Joe, Donal and John; sisters Margaret, Siobhan and twin Mary; and faithful dog, Ceili. He was predeceased by his father Joseph O’Shea.
Stephen came to America when he was 17 years old. Stephen worked with the Carpenters Union Local 608 until transferring to New York City’s Department of Education, where he retired in May 2019 as a Borough Facilities Manager.
Stephen was involved in many clubs and organizations. He was a member of the Kerrymen’s P&B Association, A.O.H Div. I of Orange County, United Irish Counties, The Bergen Irish N.J., Knights of Columbus, NJ Gaelic League, and Project Children.
He always kept in touch with his Gaelic roots.
Stephen founded St. Brendan’s Gaelic Football Club of Orange County, NY, in 2001. The club was named after “The Patron Saint of Co. Kerry.” It served as a source of organized sports and Irish cultural heritage for youth in the area. This was the first new Gaelic football club established in New York in more than 27 years. He was recognized for this achievement by the NY GAA.
Stephen was very proud of St. Brendan’s G.F.C. and often spoke of the many good people who provided support and resources. He was thankful in particular of his wife Cathie, committee members, coaches, volunteers and local politicians who turned a dream into reality.
Stephen had a tremendous love for music. He enjoyed playing the button accordion and tin whistle. He was always up for a sing song and a bit of craic, not to mention a brilliant dancer. He never passed up on an opportunity to do something fun.
Additionally, he was a man of many talents who could build or fix anything he set his mind to. He was an accomplished Finish Carpenter and Cabinet Maker. Stephen was a natural leader, a devout Catholic and gentleman. He truly loved living and valued the gift of life.
Stephen’s ultimate pride and joy was his family. He will be remembered as a family man and friend to all. His charisma, positivity and optimism will never be forgotten.
He was a compassionate, generous, kind soul who only spoke well of others as he lived to lift spirits up. Stephen will be missed dearly by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will always live on.
Visitation took place Sept. 20 at Flynn Funeral & Cremation Memorial Centers, Inc., located at 139 Stage Road, Monroe.
A Funeral Mass was held Sept. 21, at St. Anastasia’s Church, located 21 N. Main St., Harriman.
Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Brendan T. Flynn and Thomas F. Flynn, Directors and Certified Cremation Specialists of Flynn Funeral & Cremation Memorial Centers, Inc.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a memorial donation to St. Brendan’s GFC.
To offer an online memorial please visit www.flynnfh.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Stephen O’Shea, please visit our floral store.