Stephen Henry Szabo

Stephen Henry Szabo, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 28th, 2025, in Hillsborough, New Jersey. Born December 14, 1938, in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, Steve was raised there before making Manville, New Jersey his lifelong home — proudly living there for 63 years and dedicating his life to the community he loved and served. Steve was a fighter who exemplified strength throughout his life. He loved to stay busy and believed deeply in being part of something greater than himself. He was the kind of man who always showed up — for his family, his town, and his country. Whether sharing a cup of Dunkin’ coffee, enjoying Friday night dinners at the VFW, or lending a hand to a neighbor, Steve lived with purpose, pride, and heart. A proud United States Navy veteran and member of the U.S. Marine Corps League, Steve carried the values of discipline, honor, and commitment into every chapter of his life. Those same values guided his extraordinary career in public service. Over 18 years, Steve faithfully represented Manville as a six-term Councilman, even serving as Council President and chairing every committee on Council. He led with integrity, respect, and a deep love for his town. Beyond elected office, Steve never stopped serving. He spent 10 years as a Special Police Officer with the Manville Criminal Investigation Division and 5 years with CERTS (Citizen Emergency Response Team). He was always ready to lend a hand when his neighbors were in need. Steve was deeply involved in countless civic and fraternal organizations throughout his life, including: • Faithful parishioner of Sacred Heart Church • Life Member and Past Grand Knight, Manville Knights of Columbus, St. Jude Council #6573 • District Deputy, Faithful Navigator, and Color Guard Corps Commander, George Washington Assembly No. 0653, Knights of Columbus • Member and Past Commander, Manville VFW Post #2290 • Life Member and Past Post Commander, American Legion • Life Member, Manville Youth Athletic League (MYAL) • Life Member, Manville Rescue Squad Steve was predeceased by his son Joseph Szabo, his sister Janette Goyne, his sister-in-law Priscilla Szabo, and his parents Joseph and Stella Szabo. He is survived by his daughter Odette Szabo; his son Jeffrey Szabo and his wife Jaclyn; his brother Zigmund Szabo; grandchildren Heather, Paige, Owen, Cayson, and Charleigh; great-grandchildren Isabella and Aaliyah; and several nieces and nephews. When all was said and done, Steve was most proud of being a father, grandfather, and friend. His greatest joy was found in the love of his family, and his legacy of dedication, warmth, and community spirit will live on in their hearts and in the town he helped shape. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at Ketusky Funeral Home, 1310 Brooks Blvd., Manville, NJ (908-575-8512). A Funeral Mass will follow on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Manville, with burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Hillsborough, NJ. For additional information, please visit www.ketusky.com.

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Stephen Henry Szabo

December 14, 1938 - October 28, 2025