Stephen W. Takacs, of Hermitage, passed away with the comfort of his family at his home on Dec. 10, 2024. He was 13 days shy of his 95th birthday.

Steve was born at home on Dec. 23, 1929, in Masury, Ohio. He was the beloved son of Stephen and Mari (Csicsok) Takacs. Proud of his Hungarian heritage, Steve cherished his roots throughout his life.

After attending Brookfield High School, Class of '47, Steve served his country with honor aboard the US Navy Destroyer DDR-875.

After his military service, he embarked on a fulfilling career with American Airlines, starting in Los Angeles (LAX) and later transferring to Cleveland (CLE), which he enjoyed immensely.

Balancing his career aspirations with his love for his family, Steve chose to work closer to home, working and retiring from Westinghouse Electric Corp.

His passion for automobiles led him to work for Dodge City, where he excelled earning the "Salesman of the Year" title for 15 years. He also earned the prestigious "Gold Level" award from Chrysler Corp. His remarkable achievements in car sales earned him the nickname "Cal Ripken" of the industry.

On Aug. 25, 1997, Steve married the love of his life, Marilou Mauck. They made their home in Boardman, Ohio, where they spent weekends dancing, enjoying quiet dinners and traveling to visit family and friends. After Marilou's passing in 2019, Steve missed her dearly every day. He then moved to Hermitage, enjoying time with his family, concerts at Buhl Park, attending local car shows, participating in Hungarian picnics and driving his "toy" 2007 Ford Mustang Coupe Deluxe.

Steve was a valued member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 3298, Austintown, a former member of the Hickory VFW, former member of Western Star Masonic Lodge, Al Koran and Youngstown Shrine Club.

Steve will be remembered for his love of life and family, his distinguished career and his vibrant spirit.

Steve is survived by his daughters, Gloria Kaiser (Norm, deceased), Judy Christie (Howard), Darlene Kilgore, Margaret Gierchak and Symantha Erme (Scott); step-daughter, Darlene Connelly (Neil); and many, many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Marilou, Steve was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret White; son, Stephen G. Takacs; grandson, Joseph Gierchak; step-great granddaughter, Makalia Brown; and first wife, Lorraine (Bean) Takacs.

TAKACS

Stephen W., 94, Hermitage.

Calling hours: 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday (12-17-24) at BRICELAND FUNERAL SERVICE LLC, 379 State Route 7 S.E., Brookfield, Ohio 44403.

Service: 11 a.m. Wednesday (12-18-24) in the funeral home with military honors provided by the Wheatland American Legion and West Middlesex VFW Honor Guard.

Interment: Private.

Expressions of sympathy may be left for his family at

www.bricelandfuneralservice.com