Stephen Edward Kicinski Jr.

Stephen Edward Kicinski Jr, age 93, peacefully passed away on April 15, 2025, in Dallas, TX. Born on August 7, 1931, in Johnson City, New York, Stephen led a fulfilling life marked by a distinguished career and a deep commitment to his community and family.

Stephen graduated from Binghamton Central High School and worked at Endicott Johnson while playing Semi-Pro basketball. He then joined the Navy and proudly served during the Korean War aboard the USS Albany and as a meteorologist aboard the USS Navy Midway Aircraft Carrier, a role that demanded precision and dedication. After being honorably discharged, Stephen attended Michigan Technical College, earning both his Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Civil Engineering.

Stephen joined his future wife, Mary Palenik, on a blind date in June of 1955 and three months later married on September 3, 1955. They celebrated 67 years of marriage in 2022!

Professionally, Stephen was a Civil Engineer contributing his expertise to major companies including Boeing in Washington State, Boeing Vertol (Helicopter Division) in Pennsylvania, and General Dynamics Electric Boat Division in Connecticut. Major accomplishments included ground support for the Minuteman Missile Program and pioneering the development of Finite Element Analysis for seafaring structures as the chief of Nuclear Engineering at Electric Boat (nicknamed Silver Fox). His passion for education led him to teach surveying in the evenings at Thames Valley Technical College and work part-time as a surveyor, sharing his knowledge and inspiring many.

A devout Catholic, Stephen was actively involved in his church as a lector and member of the choir, enriching services with his tenor voice and commitment. Stephen’s interests included tending to his pet dogs and cats, judging and timing at his children’s swim meets, playing competitive basketball, bowling, golfing, collecting stamps and coins, solving crossword puzzles, enjoying the Johnny Carson and David Letterman Shows, listening to Frank Sinatra, traveling, attending concerts and reading old western novels - each hobby reflecting his diverse passions and curious nature.

Stephen is survived by his five children: Stephen Thomas Kicinski (Joanne), Kathryn McDermott (Robert), Michael Kicinski (Cathy), Mary Trost (Joe), and Carolyn McTish (David), and his twenty-six grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Mary Louise Kicinski (Palenik), his parents, Stephen E Kicinski Sr., Mary Kicinski (Kulheim), and his siblings John and Shirley Kicinski.

Stephen’s life was a testament to his robust spirit and enduring love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The Kicinski family wishes to thank The Presbyterian Village North staff who skillfully took care of Stephen. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to https://horseprotection.org/support-us or https://www.mowrowan.org/give-now. A link is provided below.