Stefan "Steve" Macioch

Tomaszow, Lublelski, Poland

Passed away: March 4, 2025

Seba Beach , Alberta

In the summer of 1939 Steve immigrated with his parents and siblings shortly before the start of WWII, leaving behind their home in Tomaszow. The family made their way to Liverpool England where they boarded the SS Montrose in July. After arriving in Montreal Canada on September 11,1939, just days before Steve's 2nd birthday. Then family headed west to Tomahawk Alberta.

Steve's parents were able to acquire land and with hard work and determination they cleared it, built a home and started farming. Even though life was hard they knew they would have a better life in Canada. Some of these early experiences provided Steve with the stories he told his future children and grandchildren about his family and their history. When describing the hardships they had to endure Steve emphasized how you should look to find joy in the little things in life.

Steve realized at a young age how much he loved music and wanted to play the fiddle, so he managed to save up seven dollars to buy a fiddle from his sister’s (Lydia) boyfriend. Steve's brother John said, as soon as he could scratch out a tune he could play with him at dances.

Steve was self-taught and it didn’t take long before he joined his brother at dances, weddings and jamborees. Steves talent and passion for the fiddle was undeniable. That passion stayed with him throughout his life. He did not just play the fiddle he brought people together with it.

Steve eventually married and became a devoted father to his two daughters Teresa and Diane, whom he gave every opportunity in life and provided them an adventurous childhood. Being girls in Steve's eyes should never hold you back. Steve taught them how to fish without a rod. They climbed mountains and hiked for hours in the bush to find that special pail of berries before the bears did. He taught them how to plant a garden, find that special piece of tree sap for gum, build a fire, shingle a roof and so much more. His daughters will be forever grateful for all the experiences in life that he gave them.

While Steve worked a variety of jobs, he was known for his mastery and precision with the backhoe. He spent decades operating his own trucking and backhoe company, while also having worked for many years with AGT where he made many friends. Steve was a man of hard work, determination and strength. Eventually Steve would return to farming while continuing his work with his heavy equipment business.

Time passed and the daughters married, then grandchildren arrived. All who have their own special stories of adventures with grandpa. More than a few grandchildren can attest to being sat in a feed trough where they received the occasional wet nose from the cows while grandpa finished his chores with the cattle.

Then came great-grandchildren who are left with many treasured memories from visits to Grandpa’s. Easter was a special time for the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Steve created scavenger hunts and would leave elaborate “Easter Bunny” notes that required the kids to search large areas of the farm looking for treats. Much to their joy, Steve often entertained grandchildren and great grandchildren alike with impromptu fiddle sessions. They could always count on great grandpa to always have an ice cream or chocolate bar on hand when they came to visit. They are all left with memories and love for great grandpa and his farm.

Steve loved all animals and had many beloved pets who were faithful companions whether he was going to the town for mail or working in the fields, there was always a dog or cat by his side.

Steve not only loved farming; he was an avid gardener and was always happy when the grandchildren would come pick berries or carrots. Family always went home with a jar of Steve's famous pickles. He always felt most at home when he was out in nature.

Through his determination and love of family and the farm, he stayed until the end in the place he loved the most.

Shortly before Steve passed, he was fortunate enough to hold his great-great-grandson, Beau William, born December 2024.

As we say goodbye to Steve, we honor the music he played, the family he loved, and the hard work he put into every chapter of his life. His legacy will live on in the melodies we hear, the stories we tell and the love that continues to grow within his family.

Steve leaves behind his daughters: Teresa (Mike) and Diane (Joe); his four grandchildren: Weston (Bonnie), Amber, Melanie (Matt) and Kaitlyn (Dan); his nine great-grandchildren, Brandy (Damien) Evan, Jocelyn, Hunter, Bryna, Reid, Piper, Isla and Braxton as well as several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Steve was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Anna (nee: Guch) Macioch, his sister Ruby Pawluk, brother John Machuk, and sister Lydia Stemmer.

YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine

You make me happy when skies are grey

You’ll never know dear, how much I love you

Please don’t take my sunshine away.

As per Steves wishes there will be no formal memorial services.

But feel free to put on some fiddle music, tell some bad jokes (as he liked to do!) and raise a glass in remembrance.