Stephen Michael Kiernan

Stephen Michael Kiernan passed away peacefully on July 24, 2024, with his family by his side. He was born in Albany, N.Y. on June 14, 1937 to Dr. Joseph and Mary Kiernan (Danahy). He is predeceased by his wife, Mary Ellen Kiernan (Hogarty), his brothers, Thomas and Phillip, and his sister Mary Daly. He is survived by his children: Michael (Stephanie Buyce), Ellen Ayers (Jeffrey), Ann Gorson (Kenneth), and his grandchildren, Sean, Ana, and Natalie Kiernan, Alexandra and Charlotte Ayers, and Stephen and Katie Gorson.

Stephen grew up in Albany, N.Y., graduated from Cranwell Preparatory School in Lenox, MA. and received his bachelor’s degree from Holy Cross College. He attended Albany Law School where he was the editor of the Law Review and salutatorian of his graduating class. During his life, he was a great supporter of the school and served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for 5 years after he retired from his law firm. He was a partner with Bouck, Holloway, Kiernan, and Casey for thirty years. He was a consummate litigator and was greatly respected by his peers across the upstate New York region.

Steve was a generous person who gave freely of his time and knowledge to many organizations and individuals throughout his life. He was a trusted advisor, mentor, and confidant, and had many lifelong friendships dating back to law school. He was first and foremost, a devoted father who loved to spend time with his children and grandchildren. He adored his beloved wife, Mary Ellen, whom he met at Burden Lake where their families’ spent summers. They were married for sixty-five years.

Steve had many interests and was a strong athlete. He was an avid boater and fisherman, both salt and fresh water. He enjoyed hunting, water and downhill skiing, golfing and competed in a masters swimming league. He was a pilot and owned an airplane that he often used to travel to courthouses throughout New York State while trying cases.

Every August, he and Mary Ellen could be seen at the Saratoga Racetrack where they enjoyed being part-owner of several thoroughbred horses. He enjoyed music of all kinds and loved watching the Giants on Sundays following a long car ride in the countryside of upstate New York. Steve loved to travel and took many trips across the globe often with family and friends. He had a keen sense of humor and was quick to laugh. Steve and Mary Ellen had a beautiful home in New Scotland, N.Y. overlooking the Helderberg Mountains where they loved having the family for weeks in the summer and holidays. They entertained their many friends and enjoyed so many delicious meals together. They spent many winters in Florida, finally settling in Marco Island where they spent their last twenty-five years.

Steve was dearly loved by his family. He will be remembered for his brilliant mind, quick wit and his devotion to his wife.

Funeral services will be private for the family, on a later date.