Steven Semchessen, 81, of Middletown, died Nov. 9, 2022. Steven was born in Newark, but his family later moved to Highlands where he grew up. He served in the U.S. Air Force. Steven eventually moved to Middletown with his wife Carole to raise his family.
For over 30 years, Steven worked for the National Park Service as a mechanic/heavy equipment operator at Sandy Hook, where he witnessed the park transition from state to national park. One of his favorite parts of his time with the National Park Service was spending most of his days outdoors.
Outside of work, Steven enjoyed traveling the world with his beloved wife and daughters. His hobbies included painting nature scenes inspired by his time spent outdoors and spending time with his family. For many years, he was active in the community, volunteering for Middletown Helps its Own.
Steven is survived by his wife of 58 years Carole Semchessen; three daughters, Kim (Michael) McCusker, Donna Semchessen, and Nicole (Vincent) Scalice; sister, Tonya Pezzutti; and eight grandchildren, Sammi, Jess and Rian McCusker, Tiana and Steven Malo, and Savana, Drew and Mia-Rose Scalice.
Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Mary Semchessen.
Visitation and service were held Nov. 15 at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Middletown. Burial followed at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Steven’s name to Middletown Helps Its Own, P.O. Box 105, Port Monmouth, NJ 07758; mhio65@gmail.com.
The article originally appeared in the November 24 – 30, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
