Stephen J. Harcharik, 66, of Connorville, Ohio, passed away suddenly Saturday, February 22, 2020 at Wheeling Medical Park.
The son of the late Stephen D. and Pauline Matyas Harcharik, Steve was also preceded in death by his sister, Katherine.
Steve was born in Weirton, WV on December 20, 1953. At an early age, he showed an interest in radio and became a regular fixture at his hometown radio station, 1430 WEIR. That was the beginning of his long and successful career as an on air personality at radio stations in Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Virginia. He also was a licensed amateur radio operator, Skywarn reporter and a shortwave radio aficionado. For many years, Steve operated his own rock and gem craft business and was known as “That Gem Guy.”
The light of Steve's life were his cats, Djinn, Boo, Mishka and Dorey. He was often called the “cat master” because of his ability to charm any feline, especially Siamese cats. He was a supporter of Hounds' Haven, a member of the Cat Welfare Association and a transporter for National Siamese Rescue.
Steve was a card carrying member of the Democratic Socialists of America and owned a copy of every episode of Trailer Park Boys and Letterkenny. Frank Zappa and Root Boy Slim were his personal heroes.
Steve is survived by his loving wife (and former radio partner) Marjie DeFede, a brother, Richard Harcharik and many wonderful friends and relatives.
A reception will be held to remember Steve on Sunday, March 1 at St. Paul's social hall in downtown Steubenville, starting at noon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hounds' Haven, Inc., 22 Township Road 150, Dillonvale, OH 43917.
Steve spent much time at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in Garrettsville, Ohio, which he considered to be a magical place and his favorite on earth. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held there at a later date.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Stephen J Harcharik, please visit our floral store.