Stephen T. Szajek

Stephen T. Szajek, 75, of Shillington, passed away on April 8, 2025 at Hershey Medical Center. He was surrounded by family and friends who loved him. Born in Reading, he was the son of Stephen P. and Stella E. (Topur) Szajek. Steve was the loving husband of Bonita "Bonnie" (Johnson), with whom he shared 54 years of love and marriage.

Steve was a 1968 graduate of Reading High School. He remained dedicated to the district, serving as a maintenance and security worker for 37 years.

Lovingly known as "Spunkey" to his friends and family, he was a devoted nurturer who held his family close to his heart, always striving to give them his all. Steve was a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies. Prior to his illness, he found joy in visiting casinos and embarking on cruises and traveling. He had a particular fondness for hotdogs and cherished the music of Elvis and the Oakridge Boys.

Steve had a unique sense of humor and was always the character. He was a true warrior, surviving almost ten years, amid all of the challenges of the LVAD. He consistently liked to help others, motivating him to take part in a clinical trial for the Heartmate 3 LVAD.

In addition to his spouse, Bonnie, Steve is survived by his daughter, Katie E. Szajek (companion to Luke DeBonis). He is also survived by his niece, Corie Rhoads, and his nephew, John "Brub" Hillegas. He will be dearly missed by his naughty cat, Oreo.

Steve was predeceased by his sister, MaryAnn Hillegas and his sweet cat, Tiggy the Tiger.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 12PM at One United Church of Christ, 1730 New Holland Road, Kenhorst, Reading, PA 19607. Friends and family will be received from 11AM-12PM at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Steve's memory to the Penn State Heart and Vascular Institute, including the LVAD Team in the memo line at PO Box 852 Hershey, PA 17033 or online at engage.pennstatehealth.org.

Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home is honored to serve the Szajek family. Condolences may be written online at KuhnFuneralHomes.com.