Stephen Thomas Steiger

He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Greslie Steiger; his father, William Steiger; his sister, Stephanie and his brother, Bill Steiger. He is survived by his two daughters, Gretchen Skelton and Christy Steiger; son-in-law, Chad Skelton; sister-in-law, Wendy Steiger and by his sister, Sharon Spahr. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Cole, Owen, and Josie and many nieces and nephews.

Stephen was born in Aberdeen, MD on August 27, 1955. Stephen graduated with a BA in anthropology from the University of South Carolina, and he completed his Master's in social work from USC as well in 2005. Prior to his career in mental health, he spent many years as a successful salesman, working for John H. Harland Company and Wentworth Printing. Stephen was a dedicated servant to those in need, serving in sexual trauma services for several years after receiving his license in social work. He helped numerous people during his time working at the Beckman Mental Health Center in Newberry, SC from 2008 up until his passing. His coworkers credit him as being "a wonderful person who truly left his mark," and with changing and saving many lives over the duration of his career in mental health. He passed on this legacy of service to his daughters, who both serve their communities as public school educators.

Stephen was a witty conversationalist, a lover of music, an intelligent critical thinker, and a charismatic man. He and his brother liked to joke that they had "the tism," a family colloquialism referencing their charming magnetism. He loved to play guitar, write songs, and hear his daughters sing as he played. He would often record himself playing and send his music to friends and family. He had a gift for empathy and a love for equality, participating in numerous marches for causes he held dear. Stephen was also a lover of the outdoors. He loved fishing with his brother and his annual solo camping trips he affectionately referred to as his "steveathon." He loved playing chess, cards, and monopoly with his daughters and grandchildren.

Stephen's celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 2, 2022 at 3:00 pm at the Meech House at Mungo Park (2121 Lake Murray Blvd., Columbia, SC 29212). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation to Pathways, a nonprofit organization in the Columbia area, which provides services for sexual assault victims. Please make donations in honor of Stephen Steiger (https://pathwaystohealing.com/).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.elmwoodfhcolumbia.com for the Steiger family.