information from Bill Hinsley

Stephen J. Szyarto

Nov. 13, 1949 - Nov. 14, 2012

ELKHART - Stephen "Steve" J. Szyarto, 63, passed away Wednesday, November 14, 2012, at the Northwestern University Hospital in Chicago.

He was born November 13, 1949 in South Bend, Indiana to Mary Jane (DeMas) and James F. Szyarto. He married Jill Hinkle on June 7, 1980 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She survives along with their two children, Jeff Szyarto (Mindy Deinema) of Elkhart & Kara Szyarto (Cade Pellegrin) of Fredericksburg, Virginia. Mr. Szyarto is also survived by his sister, Ruth Szyarto (Sue DeRoos) of New Carlisle, Indiana; & his in-laws, Patsy Hinkle and Marvin and Sally Teegarden all of Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by both of his parents.

Steve graduated form John Adams High School and IUSB with a BS and MS in elementary education.

Mr. Szyarto taught for the Elkhart School Corporation for 42 years, serving at Lincoln and Hawthorne Elementary Schools. He loved teaching math and awakening young minds to all the possibilities there are for them. Most of all he loved his family. Steve won numerous city championships while serving as a coach at Lincoln Elementary School.

Steve was proud to be a member of MENSA. For many years, Steve served the Elkhart Teachers' Association in numerous capacities including vice-president, Grievance Chair, and as a member of the Bargaining Team. He also was co-president of Elkhart Central High School Band's parent group and a committee chairman for BSA Troop 1.

Calling will be Sunday, November 18, 2012 from 4-8 pm at Walley-Mills-Zimmerman. A celebration of Steve's life will be held at 4:00 p.m. Monday, November 19th at New Hope United Methodist Church. Pastor Lee Campbell will officiate the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hawthorne Elementary School's "Fire-Up" Fund, BSA Troop 1, or Second Chance Small Dog Rescue. Walley-Mills-Zimmerman is entrusted with arrangements.

10/09/2021 DEC

South Bend Tribune