Stephen V. Slania

Stephen V. Slania, 69, peacefully passed away on October 5, 2015 at his home in Houston, Texas. Steve is survived by his lovely bride of 46 years, Mary Lou, along with his son Jacob and daughter-in-law Alexis, and his son Andrew and daughter-in-law Ashley. Steve was the proudest grandpa in the world (he would tell you about it) of 4 grandchildren, K.P., Lillian, Charlotte, and Jake.

Steve was a distinguished high school graduate of Cleveland St. Ignatius and college graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Steve was a standout pitcher at Xavier University and his teams were among the best 25 in the Country. Steve’s engaging character lead him on various sales positions throughout his professional career including in the home building, chemical, and manufacturing industries. At the time of his passing, Steve was a loyal employee of Source Metals, Inc. owned and operated by his close friend, Allan Hohman. Steve is also well-known in the Houston community for Rice Sports Shop, a sporting goods store specializing and catering to little league and school communities that he owned and operated for 12 years.

Steve was well-known and loved throughout Houston for his teaching and coaching of the area’s youth. Steve’s teaching and coaching spanned for over 35 years with St. Thomas More, Westbury Little League, Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Karl Young college league, and to Kyle Chapman, a non-profit organization and community serving high school players focused on playing college and professional baseball, run by his close friend Mike Rutledge. Steve, an avid golfer at Walden on Lake Conroe, had two holes-in-one.

Steve was predeceased by his best friend and father, Walter V. Slania, and wonderful mother Frances Stephenson Slania. Steve was born in Chicago, Illinois and lived in Pawhuska, Oklahoma and Cleveland, Ohio during his formative years. Steve’s passion for debate and constant examination of issues was evident throughout his personal, professional, and community life. Steve could be found outside of any ball field, his beloved New York Bagel Shop, or education facility discussing the direction of the country or why a pitcher isn’t supposed to throw a strike on a 0-2 count. Steve lived a full life and had tremendous appreciation for those who visited the sick and those who were down on their luck.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Heart Association or a charity of your choice.