Stephen J. Bariexca, Sr.

Stephen J. Bariexca (The Greek) - 92 - Summit, NJ, Steve was called back home on, Thursday, April 28th, his beloved wife Rose of 61 years was by his side. Born in Newark, he was a Summit resident for 53 years. Steve is survived by his 3 children and their spouses, his son Stephen and wife Gail Bariexca; Elizabeth and husband Bill Garofalo; and his daughter Rosemary. Steve is also survived by his 5 grandchildren whom he loved dearly, Stephen, Tracy, Amy, Rosemary and Stephanie, and 1 great grandson Jack. Steve is also survived by his many nieces and nephews. Steve was predeceased by his parents, Gustave and Margaret, as well as his 5 brothers; James, Peter, Nicholas, Henry and George. Although Steve was drafted into service in 1943, he proudly and honorably served our nation with the United States Army during World War II. He was an Operating Engineer with IUOE Local 825 for 75 years until his retirement, and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus in Springfield, NJ. Steve also had a myriad of passions in his life outside of his professional accolades. He was an avid NASCAR and Sprint car racing fan, and in his younger years was a racecar driver himself. He enjoyed bowling in his league, and had no problem taking your money in a hand of poker. As his profession dictated, he was mechanically inclined, and found joy in making improvements around his home, and fixing broken yard equipment, no matter what he worked on he was able to fix everything. He was always ready to help others fix their problems in their homes, he would not stand for family and friends in his words "getting robbed" by contractors. Steve was so much more than just a loving husband, father, uncle, grandpa, and Bebop. He had also acted as a father figure and role model to countless friends, family members, and even strangers he had encountered in his lifetime. The number of people that had been affected by Steve was insurmountable. There was rarely a day when someone couldn't be heard greeting him by exclaiming "Hey Greek!". It was truly awe inspiring to see how much one man could impact this world. Viewing at Union Funeral Home Lytwyn & Lytwyn, Union, NJ Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Mass at St. Teresa's Church, Summit, NJ Monday May 2, @ 10:45 p.m.