Steve Odierno, Steven Odierno, Katherine Odierno: Remembering a Life of Dedication, Warmth, and Unwavering Commitment to St. Joseph Regional High School Community
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Steve Odierno, a beloved colleague, father, and friend, whose life has left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Steve Odierno, a proud alumnus of St. Joseph Regional High School (SJR) Class of 1993 and Director of Marketing at SJR, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and commitment. In this comprehensive obituary, we remember Steve not just for his professional role but as a devoted father to his children, Steven Odierno ’23 and Katherine Odierno ’25, who themselves were integral parts of the St. Joseph community.
Steve Odierno, a constant and unwavering presence within the school community, embodied all that SJR stands for. His contributions went far beyond his professional achievements. He was deeply embedded in the fabric of SJR, fostering meaningful relationships with faculty, students, and parents alike. As Director of Marketing, Steve worked tirelessly to enhance the visibility of the school, always with a genuine heart for the institution’s mission and values. His ability to connect, inspire, and encourage those around him made him a beloved figure at SJR, and his absence will undoubtedly leave a profound void in the lives of all who knew him.
However, Steve’s impact was not confined to his professional role alone. As a father, Steve exemplified a deep and abiding love for his children. Steven Odierno, his son, who graduated from SJR in 2023, and Katherine Odierno, his daughter, who is currently attending Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA) and will graduate in 2025, were at the center of Steve’s world. His love for his children was unmatched, and his pride in their achievements was evident in every interaction. Steve’s commitment to his family was as strong as his commitment to SJR, and it was clear to all who knew him that his role as a father was one of the most important in his life.
A Legacy of Commitment, Compassion, and Service
Steve Odierno’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to the values he held dear: family, friendship, service, and faith. As Director of Marketing at SJR, he was instrumental in shaping the school’s image and communicating its mission to the broader community. Steve understood the importance of building relationships and working collaboratively, whether with faculty, staff, students, or the parents of SJR. His warmth, kindness, and empathy were not limited to his professional duties; they extended into every aspect of his life. Steve was always willing to lend a helping hand, offer a word of encouragement, or simply be a listening ear.
Steve’s passion for SJR was not just about marketing the school; it was about promoting the spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie that defines the institution. He understood that SJR was not merely a school but a community, one that fostered personal growth, academic excellence, and a strong sense of belonging. Through his work, Steve helped to create an environment where students felt supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. His efforts were integral to the school’s ongoing success, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
A Loving Father and Devoted Family Man
At the heart of Steve Odierno’s life was his family. Steve’s children, Steven and Katherine, were his pride and joy. As a father, Steve was dedicated to ensuring that his children were always supported in their pursuits, both inside and outside of the classroom. Whether attending school events, cheering on Steven at SJR sports games, or supporting Katherine in her academic endeavors, Steve was always present, always involved, and always cheering them on with boundless enthusiasm. His commitment to his children was evident in every interaction, and he took great pride in their accomplishments.
Steven Odierno, a 2023 graduate of SJR, followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming an active member of the SJR community. Steven’s connection to SJR was strengthened by his father’s example. His deep respect for the school, its mission, and its community were nurtured by Steve’s unwavering support. Katherine Odierno, currently a student at Immaculate Heart Academy (IHA), shared a similar bond with her father. While she was not a student at SJR, Katherine’s connection to the school was also shaped by her father’s involvement. Steve’s unwavering dedication to both his children and to SJR created an unbreakable bond between his family and the school community.
Steve Odierno’s Role in the SJR Community: More Than Just a Job
Steve Odierno’s role at St. Joseph Regional High School was not just about marketing; it was about building a sense of community and ensuring that the values of SJR were communicated effectively to current students, prospective families, and alumni. Steve was deeply involved in every facet of the school’s activities, from fundraising to event planning, and his contributions helped to ensure that SJR remained a place where students could thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.
Steve’s passion for his work was evident in everything he did. He understood that marketing was not simply about creating advertisements or organizing events; it was about telling the story of the school and ensuring that the school’s mission and values were at the forefront of everything it did. Through his work, Steve helped to create a narrative of success, community, and faith that resonated with all who encountered it. His efforts helped to foster a sense of pride in the SJR community, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that the school’s reputation was one of excellence, integrity, and warmth.
Steve’s impact on the school community extended far beyond the walls of the marketing department. He was a trusted advisor to the school’s administration and played a vital role in the school’s strategic planning efforts. His deep knowledge of the school and its history, coupled with his ability to connect with people, made him a valuable resource for all who sought his counsel. Whether it was offering guidance on a new initiative or supporting a student who was struggling, Steve was always there with a steady hand and a compassionate heart.
The Loss of Steve Odierno: A Community Mourns
The passing of Steve Odierno has left a profound hole in the hearts of all who knew him. His sudden death has been felt deeply within the SJR community, and the outpouring of grief and support from alumni, faculty, students, and parents has been overwhelming. Steve was not just a colleague; he was a friend, a mentor, and a source of support for many within the community. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering loyalty to SJR and its mission made him a beloved figure whose absence will be felt for years to come.
Steve’s family, particularly his children Steven and Katherine, are at the forefront of the grief being experienced by the SJR community. Steve’s role as a father was one of the defining aspects of his life, and the love he had for his children was evident in every word and action. The community has rallied around the Odierno family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time. The loss of Steve has left a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Honoring Steve Odierno’s Memory: Services and Tribute
In honoring the life of Steve Odierno, services will be held at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home in Wyckoff, NJ, on Thursday, April 24th, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will follow at St. Elizabeth’s Church in Wyckoff, NJ, on Friday, April 25th, at 10:30 AM. These services will provide an opportunity for friends, family, and members of the SJR community to come together to remember Steve and celebrate his life. In his honor, SJR will begin the school day with a moment of reflection, remembering the impact that Steve had on the lives of all those he touched.
Though Steve Odierno’s physical presence will no longer be with us, his legacy will live on in the countless lives he impacted. His devotion to his family, his passion for SJR, and his unwavering commitment to the values he held dear will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we remember Steve, we will hold dear the lessons he taught us about the importance of community, compassion, and service to others. The SJR community will forever be grateful for the time we had with Steve, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire us in the years to come.
May Steve, Steven, and Katherine Odierno find peace in knowing that the legacy of love, warmth, and service left by Steve will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.
