Stephen Maier

Stephen F. Maier passed away at home on January 31, 2025, in South Bend, Indiana at the age of 56.  Steve (a/k/a “Fritz” to his family) was born March 23, 1968, in Ottawa, Illinois to Clarence and Rose (Keller) Maier.  Steve’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, community service, and devotion to family.

Steve grew up on the family farm south of Seneca and attended Mazon-Verona-Kinsman Schools graduating in 1986.  Subsequently he attended Southern Illinois University Carbondale and graduated with a degree in computer science.  After working and living in Chicago for a short period, Steve first moved to Highland, IN before making his home in South Bend for the last 25+ years.  He held various IT positions in the medical field over the years and was most recently working as an IT System Administrator for Beacon Health System.

Steve was deeply involved in his community.  He regularly volunteered at a South Bend homeless shelter, and he thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the patrons there.  He was also actively involved in builds for Habitat for Humanity for a number of years.  Steve also always seemed to find time to help with local food and coat drives.

Steve's faith was an integral part of his life.  He was a member of the Corpus Christi Catholic Church where he actively volunteered as an usher, as well as helping with fish fries, summer picnics, and landscaping.  Steve also regularly made the trip back to Seneca to accompany his mom to weekly Mass.

Family was the cornerstone of Steve's life. He is survived by his mother, Rose Maier; brothers Charlie (Brenda) Maier of Seneca, Illinois and William (Nicole) Maier of Traverse City, Michigan; his sister Luri (Trevor) Lorntz of Seneca, Illinois; nieces and nephews Jackie (Abel) Anderson; Ashley Bowlden; and Emma, Chris, and Gracie Smith; and 3 great nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence, and his niece, Jessica Sue Maier.

Memorials may be made in Steve’s name to one of the homeless shelters in the South Bend area or to Habitat for Humanity.  You can also choose to simply perform an unsolicited act of kindness for a friend, neighbor or co-worker.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and visitation for Steve will take place 10 – 11 AM on Saturday February 15th at Sacred Heart Church in Kinsman, Illinois.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 AM with Fr. Stanley Drewniak officiating.  Internment at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Seneca will follow the service.  A celebration of Steve’s life will also take place at a later date in his adopted hometown of South Bend.