Stephen Korfhage Sr.

Korfhage, Stephen, Sr., 66, passed away peacefully November 7, 2015 at Norton Hosparus after a courageous battle with cancer. “His son, Stephen Jr. writes of him” - My father was a man who epitomized the phrase "drink life deeply". He had very little interest in most material things. Instead, he chose to fill his time with friends and family, to fill his heart with laughter, and to fill his home with fond memories. It was a rare occurrence to find him without a smile on his face or to find him at a party he wasn't the life of. As a father, he wasn't big on pontificating or espousing words of wisdom and sage advice, choosing instead to lead my brother and I by example. And his example was one I absorbed and attempt to replicate. Fierce loyalty, a hard work ethic, a harder play ethic, intelligence without arrogance, healthy skepticism, responsibility, courage, modesty, and above all, a playful and optimistic outlook on life. Steve had an infectious smile and a razor sharp wit that could cut through the foulest of moods. His ability to make those around him laugh, even in the darkest times, seemed to be inexhaustible and ensured that he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. The mere mention of his name among those who met him could elicit the type of response most would reserve for their favorite entertainer. "You're Steve Korfhage's boy?!", people would say to me, "Your dad is the funniest/coolest/craziest son-of-a-….. I ever met! I remember this one time...". I won't say that Steve never met a stranger, but strangers never stayed that way for long. He had a true passion for, and thrived off of, bringing joy to others. Steve's mother, my grandmother, had a favorite saying: "All things are passing". It's a phrase that reminds us that, no matter how rough the seas of life get, the storm will eventually clear and smooth sailing will resume. But it also serves to teach us that the sunshine, too, is not permanent so we should graciously bask in its rays while it lasts. So as I prepare to face the oncoming storm, it gives me solace to look back fondly upon the fading sun of my father's time with us. To take in the warmth of his glow as it slips behind the clouds with a deep appreciation for everything he did for me, for the lightness he instilled in my heart, for the time I was lucky enough to share with him, and for the pride he gave me in being able to call myself his son. I know that, although it may be hidden from view, Steve's light is still there, just behind the veil. And if I keep my head up and weather the storm it will be waiting to envelop me again on the other side. To steal a quote from Shakespeare: "Now cracks a noble heart. Good night, sweet prince; And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!" I think I speak for many when I say that you were very loved and you will be equally missed. Steve was a loving husband to Lucy (Newton); devoted father of Stephen Jr. and Scott; dedicated brother to Victor, Tom, Mary Jo and Regina. His Celebration of Life will be held 7:00 PM, Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at Ratterman Grand Chapels, 4832 Cane Run Road. Visitation will be 1:00 – 7:00 Tuesday. Memorial gifts to Hosparus.

Stephen Korfhage Sr.

December 5, 1948 - November 7, 2015