Stephen Michael McCarthy was fearless, relentless, and cocky in the best way. He never wanted to settle.

When the world preached caution and conformity, he pushed boundaries and pursued his dreams. He had an overwhelming belief in himself and was never scared. He had endless ideas and goals. He was strong-willed, absolutely unwilling to settle for anything less than the life he imagined. He fervently believed that he was destined to do great things. And he did.

Steve was an electrical engineer by trade and earned multiple master’s degrees. Early in his career, he worked as a Teacher’s Assistant and Adjunct Professor at Manhattan College, his alma mater and second home. He spent time working at LaGuardia Airport and The Lockheed Martin Corporation. Never satisfied, he fulfilled his childhood ambition of working on Wall Street and living in a high-rise in Manhattan (or “the City”). Later, he shifted to start-ups — helping to found, form, and build multiple companies across the globe. At the time of his passing, he lived
in downtown Cleveland, Ohio and worked for Sherwin-Williams. That was Steve – brilliant, always reaching, always building something bigger. 

Steve was quick-witted and even quicker with a hug. He loved deeply and effusively. He was a constant cheerleader and always pushing others to achieve more. He would send notes, memes, and songs out of the blue and just because. He could talk for hours about everything and nothing at all. He loved to travel, to swim, and the Fourth of July. Steve was a friend to many and, possibly, all. He always tried to meet new people everywhere he went and was known for getting into “shenanigans.” Steve loved to debate and would never concede. He had an electric personality and an ability to connect, as evidenced by all the stories, messages, and outpouring of love our family has received since his passing.

Steve was born on December 13, 1984. As kids, Steve and his brother bonded over playing street hockey and wiffle ball. As they grew up, they shared an immense love for the New York Rangers with each other and friends by splitting season tickets, traveling to see the team, and hoping for another Cup. Steve loved baseball more than anything else and always remarked about the indelible impression that Garden City South Little League left on his life. He was immensely proud of being a member of the McCarthy family and was bold enough to tattoo the family’s last name on his leg (to the chagrin of my parents).

Steve was sincere, generous, and sweet. He was a great son, brother, and uncle. We understand Steve passed away from an enlarged heart. He left us far too soon. He will be missed for his deep laugh, sarcastic humor, his boundless enthusiasm, and the best and biggest hugs you could ever receive. His memory and his impact will be carried forward by all who knew and loved him. May his beautiful and extraordinary soul rest in peace.