I just found out about Steve’s passing. My gosh, how sad and terrible a loss. I played youth baseball with Steve at HYBC in Butterfield and have such fond memories of our 1987 team that went 25-1. I was strolling through some old photos and wanted to start reaching out to team members and came across this. I remember how much fun we had that summer and how close we were back then. May he rest in peace.

Jason Hudson

My thoughts are with you on this sad day of remembrance.  May his memory be a blessing to all of us.    Rick Cook

I'm very sorry to hear of this tragic loss. "Mr. Sostak" was an instrumental part of my son's life at a sensitive time in his life. I will be forever grateful. May his memory be for a blessing. 

A beautiful, gentle, loving soul. Rest in Peace Steve. Your star will shine on. Sincere condolences to all your family, especially Lucy whom I taught in grade three, ISBeijing.

Dear Sostak family and friends of Steve, I was a classmate of Steve’s at York Center. Played saxophone with him (he was always first chair… i tried and tried!) Ran against him for class president… he always won… always a gentleman. I told some of our old classmates, because of Steve, i pushed myself hard in everything… sports, music, school, student council… he was a force. although it’s been a long time since those days, i hurt badly. please know that my heart is with you all. please know that we will never forget him… it’s impossible. he was that guy… the one you don’t forget. much love to you all. with much love and peace, Erin Sullivan

Erin Brewster

Dear ones,
I am reaching out to you to express my sincere condolences for your loss. I met Steve through our work on student voice. During Covid, we each had a group of our students share their work at a conference sponsored online by WAB. I remember being in awe of him and the work that he had generated on behalf of students and for the world. The work that I had generated seemed so small in comparison. Steve told me that everything offered an entry point. Thank you for sharing your beloved one with all of us in the International Schools. He blazed trails for all of us with our students. 

I know that there are no words to help soothe your aching hearts. I will keep you all in my prayers and say a daily prayer for Steve for his soul to rise to its highest place for eleven months from the date of his transition (as is the custom in my faith). Please know that you are not alone. We all grieve with you. 

Sending comforting angels, 
Anna Rose Sugarman

I met Steve when my band supported Check Engine many years ago during their UK tour and also previously when Sweep played our hometown in Birmingham, England. He was a lovely guy and a fantastic musician and frontman. I'm sure he is sadly missed by all that knew him and always will be. Please accept my deepest condolences during this tough time.  

Steve was my daughter’s 4th grade and 6th grade teacher in KL from 2010. In the classroom, he was passionate, mesmirising, brilliant, & kind. He worked his ass off.  But he was far more than a teacher, he was our friend, and he enriched our lives well beyond the classroom. My daughter, aged 9-13, really felt that he got her, and he set her on a path of lifelong learning and passion for service to others. Steve and Angie regularly welcomed our daughter into their home to hang with Fatima, or to go rock climbing.
With compassion and sincerity, Steve brought out the best in people, inspired us to try to be better global citizens. 
We will never forget Steve, and we count ourselves as truly fortunate to have crossed paths with him for some of his journey. He was such a special person. We're devastated that he couldn't stay longer.
Sincerest condolences to all of Steve's family.
Johanna, Jesper (Australia) & Caoilin (UK) Marstrand & Family

BEV ,  STACY AND FAMILY MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ON THE DEATH OF STEVE.  WHAT A SHOCK TO ME AND MY WIFE.   IT BROUGHT BACK SO MANY MEMORIES .   STEVE  WAS ONE OF THE BEST PLAYERS I COACHED AT JEFFERSON.  HE WAS MY LITTLE COACH .  HE WAS SUCH A GREAT AND SMART PLAYER FOR ME.  I JUST CAN'T BELIEVE HE IS GONE AT SUCH YOUNG AGE IT IS JUST NOT FAIR.  JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE THAT THE GOOD DIE YOUNG.  I JUST GOT THE NOTICE FROM THE DISTRICT AND HAD TO REGAIN MY COMPOSURE BEFORE I COULD WRITE ANYTHING DOWN.   STEVE WAS ALWAYS VERY SPECIAL TO ME. 

Dear Sostak Family, 
Steve was one of my childhood friends.  We were in the same 5th grade class together at York Center.  I remember the fun times we had competing against one another in finishing the Rubik's cube (we had it down to like 2 minutes - and you had to get all sides!), moonwalking (remember how popular M.J. was?  Steve was so good at that), and playing the sax (I think he was always first chair!).  He was nice and kind to everyone and mature beyond his years, which made him unique in so many ways.  Although we didn't stay as close throughout our junior high and high school years, I always thought highly of Steve and was very fond of him.  He will be missed dearly.

My beliefs are such that I have a hope that one day very soon I will see Steve again in a beautiful, peaceful world (John 5:28, 29).  I anxiously await the day when I can greet him and other loved ones who have also fallen asleep.   For now, please know you are in my heart and prayers.   

With Deepest Sympathy, Chanda (Marshall) Stratton

So sad to hear about the loss of Steve.  

My favorite quote from Helen Keller, 
Those we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.  Steve you were loved deeply and will be missed.

With Steve and Aaron Muniz at the SDG Summit Shenzhen September 2019.  



Steve: Cool as a cucumber at the SDG Summit Shenzhen 2019. 

Interviewing Steve Sostak- SDG Summit Shenzhen 2019. 

Steve’s words during the podcast had a profound effect on me and contributed to the decision I took two months later to quit my job and seek an alternative path in life.  

I later posted a short article about this very moment with Steve on my website. 

Thank you Steve. 

I was heartbroken hearing the news of Steve’s passing. Growing up in Congress Knolls is a cherished memory of mine. Endless games of whiffle ball, football, Atari in the Sostak’s basement, slip n slide in the backyard, or my personal favorite….basketball in Steve’s driveway where we’d all argue over who was Larry Bird, Hakeem Olajuwon, Magic Johnson, etc etc. Steve was always kind, always up for a game, and always had those magical eyes and sly smile. I pray you are resting in peace, Steve.

I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear this devastating news. I still remember the time at the International School of Beijing, your classroom was always filled with students' laughter, and with your help, I learned so much. Your kindness and warmth touched everyone around you. I was so lucky to have met you. Thank you for everything to inspire us. Steve, you will be deeply missed and your impact on our life will not be forgotten.

I had the privilege of collaborating on and creating music with Steve when we were both in our infancy as musicians.  We met our freshman year of college and started playing music together my sophomore year.  We were bandmates, brothers, road warriors, and house mates during three of the most fun, formative, and creative years of my life. 

Steve was passionate, creative, and a natural leader.  He was the primary force driving our bands' creative directions. He was a warm and funny person, never passing up the opportunity to make those around him laugh. Most of all, he was a friend; he cared so much for the people in his life.

Thank you, Steve, for inviting me into your musical circle and thank you for being a caring friend.  Thank you for the many wonderful memories; you helped me grow as an artist and person more than you ever realized.  

Steve was a shining light, both to those close to him, and to all those touched by his professional mission.  He was a true teacher, in every sense of the word.  He made an impact on so many and will be missed.  My sincerest condolences to all the friends and family Steve left behind.  

Passing away is not the saddest thing, but being forgotten is. You will always be remembered by us, so there's nothing to be too sad about as your work is still continued by us...

It’s heart breaking to lose such a wonderful soul, i was able cross path with Steve in 2016, there was instant connections, he helped me grow in so many ways, especially broadening my education and experience with international issues and help me share my passion, when he left to go back to China  i was heart broken because I was going to miss my friend, but when he would come home from China, I was blessed and humbled that he came back and brought his family. That touched me, he made me and everyone feel like family from day one.  Enough. Any be said about this gentle passionate man. I’m glad I was able to cross paths and be in his energy, and that energy will live on through the lessons and conversations we’ve had. 



Mr Sostak was my 4th grade social studies teacher at MKIS, and also coached me little league basketball. I remember looking up to him so much as a kid. He was so unique, and I wanted to be like him when I grew up. He had such a passion for teaching and was such a great educator, but more than that, he cared so much about his students. As a child I often felt out of place, and Mr Sostak saw that and helped me understand my feelings. He would echo the the same phrase to me, that we’re all “same same but different, lah,” and it’s a lesson I’ve carried with me lifelong. Thank you for everything you did for me, Mr Sostak, we’re really going to miss you.


I was fortunate to have met Steve when I was living in the Chicago area in the 90's through a mutual friend. I played in a band and had gotten to meet a number of musicians, but was a little bit out of the scene because I was in grad school at the time. But Steve was one of those rare people who you feel a real connection with from the beginning. I got to see Steve's band Sweep the Leg Johnny a number of times, and they were incredible. These were some of my all time favorite shows, and the guys in the band were fantastic. It was especially kind of them to play with us at Lounge Ax at our record release party. I also got to hang out with him socially and we even jammed once. He was such a creative, energetic, talented, and kind individual. In every interaction, he was just a great guy. I wish I had stayed in touch after I moved away--from what I learned recently, he had dedicated his life to making a tangible difference in the world. Despite having been taken away from the world far too soon, Steve seemed to have made more of his years on earth than most people could do in a hundred years or more. My heart goes out to his family and everyone who loved him.

Mr Sostak was my English teacher in 6th grade and he was one of the best teachers I ever had. I was one of the quiet once in his class, had a bit of anxiety, but he was always very understanding and patient when assisting me. I miss him dearly and regret not having interacted with him more. He had a greater impact in my life, more than I thought. Rest in peace Mr Steve Sostak.

I met Steve & Angie in Peru when I was a kid. Since then I haven't met people like you. That day my heart was broken because you were moving out to a different country and I thought I was not going to see you anymore, and you were going to forget me. Nothing of that happened, you ("putative father for me" and Angie ("putative mother for me") were always for me. 

I was able to travel to China and met you 7-8 years after. That was an achievement for me. Hoping to see you again in Peru, but that won't be the case. Can't explain how broken my heart is right now, I can't explain it! One more time, THANK YOU so much for being part of my life, and all the memories since I was a kid. 

LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART 
Meliza 

I remember Mr. Sostak being one of my best teachers at ISB. I met him through Future’s Public Radio and he immediately became and inspiration for me to do better in the world and use my voice for the good of others. When I heard he was starting Inspire Citizens it just proved to me he was a type of man who wanted to help and motivate others. He was also such a funny caring character one of my favorite memories was the FPR trip to Shanghai, he made us all laugh. 

It is hard to believe my friend is gone.  He was a compassionate person who loved everybody and accepted everybody for who they were.  I will remember our times playing Atari together as well as the countless of sports games out in the backyard!  

I worked with Steve at the International School of Beijing and was inspired by him in every way. He showed me that real teaching went beyond the prescriptive curriculum and standards and assessments —all his interactions with his students were profoundly relevant to them and their journey in life. Dropping into his classroom, you might see a woodshop or a podcast recording station or good old fashioned reading and writing lessons scattered. His teaching space was always humming with life in flux. Steve was brilliant, but oh so humble, never drawing attention to himself although he was a superstar  behind the scenes. I feel blessed by his memories and am so thankful our paths crossed, even briefly. My condolences to his family. 

Circa 1979 @ Ground Round Restaurant on Roosevelt Road

We are heartbroken about Steve's passing and give our deepest condolences to Bev, Stacy, Mike, and all of Steve's family at this incredibly difficult time.

Steve was our neighbor in Congress Knolls and a beloved childhood friend with whom we shared many wonderful moments and memories like whiffle ball, tackle football games, water slides, Atari, and roller-skating romps in the garage.   He was our athlete, our organizer, our mentor, our cheerleader, and our inspirer.    He was so very kind and loved by all!

We are truly blessed to have had Stevie in our lives and we will cherish his memory and friendship forever.   We pray for Divine comfort for his family.    Rest in peace Stevie.

Lorraine, Kurt, and Chris Roloff




Steve was one of the best guys, best persons that I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. Regardless of staying up late or waking up early to catch a Zoom and chat with him about anything and everything from education, to music, art, sports, books, politics, challenging the status quo and more Steve was always in his element. I was and am appreciative of all of our discussions always especially in all of the ways that he would challenge your mind. Steve, the world is better because of your actions, thoughts, poise, and guidance. Thank you for everything, always. My deepest of condolences to your family, friends and these interconnected communities that you built. 

It was a shock to learn about the passing of Steve Sostak. It felt like a star dropped from the sky, and the world felt a little darker. Steve was a star, but not one who drew attention to himself, but one who highlighted the light in others. He was a champion for so many people and advocated for positive change.
Steve was a multi-passionate human who gave a hundred percent into everything he did. 
He cared deeply, modeling how to treat others and the planet with compassion and kindness.
In the very limited time that Steve Sostak was here, he made a huge impact. He inspired us.  
The most significant loss is to his family. My heart breaks for Angie, Lucy, Fatima, and Jessica. I pray that you get the comfort and support you need during this dark time. We hold your family in our hearts and prayers.

In sympathy,
Hannah and Steve Northcott

It was a shock to learn about the passing of Steve Sostak. It felt like a star dropped from the sky, and the world felt a little darker. Steve was a star, but not one who drew attention to himself, but one who highlighted the light in others. He was a champion for so many people and advocated for positive change.
Steve was a multi-passionate human – father, husband, musician, educator, mentor, speaker, work-out enthusiast, writer, co-founder of Inspire Citizen, etc. - who gave a hundred percent into everything he did. 
He cared deeply, modeling how to treat others and the planet with compassion and kindness.
In the very limited time that Steve Sostak was here, he made a huge impact. He inspired us.  
The most significant loss is to his family. My heart breaks for Angie, Lucy, Fatima, and Jessica. I pray that you get the comfort and support you need during this dark time.  We hold your family in our hearts.

In sympathy,
Hannah and Steve Northcott



my favorite picture from our Peru days!!  So classic!!

We worked together in KL  for few years only… but that was enough time to understand what a brilliant human being you are .. 
We need more Steve in the World … Fly high Steve, 
May we see each other again .


Our deepest condolences to Angie and the girls.  Our thoughts are with you.

~ The Yamatin Family

Oh, man, I'm sorry to hear this. I knew him because we played in the Notre Dame music scene. Talented musician, quietly good vibe...I talked to him at a Sweep the Leg show in '99 or so in MKE when I first moved here. He was embarrassed that I liked their early stuff, but it was fun, damn it! It made me feel more playful and creative and connected with the world.

I see that he became an educator--we had that in common, and the testimonials here show that he gave the students good, creative love. They need it. We all do. It's really tough to do that within educational bureaucracy. Thanks for everything you gave us, Steve. 


Sending my love to Steve's family...we fell so lucky to have had the privilege of meeting Steve and having him as part of our lives. He was a much loved 4th grade teacher of my daughter who loved to go to his class...such a wonderful person we were glad to call a friend. An inspiration not only to his students but also to their parents...a great musician and who can forget the nights of his dj'eing in KL. We spoke not so long ago about his inspire citizen project and how wonderful it would be to bring it to India...we never made it happen but Steve remains an inspiration! Lots of love to Angie and the girls 🤍

Sleep tight Steve. Balling in KL was a pleasure with you brother!

Steve and Angie were both exceptional teachers here at Mont'Kiara International School in Malaysia and they had a wonderful family. Steve was passionate about teaching and saving our environment for future generations. He was a genuinely good person. He taught our children much about the world they are living in and being thoughtful, kind members of our community.  We really missed the Sostak family when they left M'KIS but knew they would contribute much at their next destination too.  I know Steve had much more to give to this world and his family. May his memory be a blessing for all those who knew and loved him. 

Coach, where do I begin? I thank you for always pushing me and inspiring me to do my best. You were a great mentor to me through my basketball training and throughout high school. It’s 10 years this past month since we won the league championship in 2013. My heart aches that you’re gone, but I thank you for all you’ve taught me. You’ll always be with me coach, Sostak. 
Love, 
Zach Paz 

It has been hard to describe my feelings and write these lines. I'm shocked to learn about Steve's tragic passing. He was like a fountain of inspiration to guide my teaching. The trajectory of his innovative and impactful education was encouraging. I'm fortunate enough to know him.  My deepest condolence to his family and friends!

My heartfelt condolences to Steve's family and loved ones. A courageous and dedicated spirit taken from us so suddenly. Steve's vision for positive change in this world through the educator lens was and is still greatly admired, and it will be carried on by those who knew him and into the next generation. 

Steve was a really important person in my life, and I regret that before his passing I wasn't able to express to him what a positive impact he had on me and so many others.  The Notre Dame family has lost a true hero.  Thank you so much Steve.  Knowing you in this life was a beautiful gift ❤

Steve was incredibly kind and inclusive. He welcomed me in 1998 to play baseball with what would become the "Beetles" baseball team. He was our leader and our captain, bringing us together to play a game we loved. 
He also knew I had no family in Chicago and invited me to spend the Christmas holiday with his family in 1998. He didn't have to do this but he understood that being alone on the holidays is difficult.
Thank you, Steve, for everything you did. You impacted my life forever. Love, Carlos P

I can't find an explanation for what happened, how could he leave us, I'm going to miss him a lot, he always gave us his time, his understanding and, most importantly, his love, thanks for everything.  
Dad Steven.
Love you.

Only knew Steve for a short time in Beijing but I worked with Angie and my wife, Anke was Steve's LS support teacher.  We were so saddened by the news of Steve's passing.  My wife said he was one of, if not the, most passionate educator she had ever worked with but aside from that he was a kind and gentle soul who made others feel important and heard.  A huge loss to all those who passes through his orbit.  We are so very sorry for his loss

Steve was an inspiring teacher to both our children, Aidan & Kayla in MKIS Kuala Lumpur whilst we were there. Our whole family is in shock with this news of his passing. Our condolences to Angela and the kids. In loving memory from the KEAN family. Bangkok, Thailand. 

I can’t believe Steve is gone! He was such a passionate guy in everything he did! He knew how to help people change their perspectives in life when they need it! 
My condolences to Angie and the girls! 
Gustav

Great times together teaching in Peru.  Glad we saw you in Dubai, in November.

You will be missed!!!  Robb

My deepest condolences to the Sostak family. 

Mr Sostak was my 4th grade teacher at Colegio Roosevelt in Lima, Peru.

 I can say he is one of the teachers that made the most impact in my life. He taught me so much and provided confidence to all his students. I remember how he allowed us to see the positive when we had a tough day. He’d provide the space so that we could reflect on our growth. For him, it wasnt about the grades and the numbers, it was about teaching each of his students on how to deal with big emotions at such a young age. How to be proud of our achievements and most importantly, how to be kind to one another. 

Thank you for all the positive impacts you made in our young lives, you’ll be greatly missed. 

OBITUARY

Steven M. Sostak

May 18, 1973 – February 4, 2023

Chapel Hill Gardens West Funeral Home & Cemetery

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