Gerald Steffen Obituary

Gerald Edgar Steffen, 88, of Wellsville (Alma), NY, died August 16, 2025 after a long illness. Mr. Steffen was born July 7th, 1937 in Danville (Riverside), PA to Herbert and Alberta (Hower) Steffen.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by children Julia Steffen and Lillian Hordendorf-Steffen and John Steffen, siblings Harold Steffen, Shirley Markle, Ken Steffen, Doris Conner, Virginia Neaus, Lois Weiss and Eleanor Miller.

He is survived by his children Gerald F. (Rosemary) Steffen, Janice (Michael) Wright, Denise (David) Lawrence, sister Irene Kern, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gerald had great memories of childhood in PA, including working with his grandfather, Francis Steffen, dredging coal on the Susquehanna River and playing football for his Danville High School team. He loved running along the town’s railroad tracks.

He left PA in the late 1950’s, moving North to Rochester where he was employed by Arpeako (Rochester Packaging Co.) and would meet and marry Raphael Barbarito who also worked there. He would also work for a dairy company. He was forced to retire early due to health issues. He had a passion for the outdoors, being a proficient hunter, trapper and fisherman having several trophies along with the stories. He planned and grew large vegetable gardens, raised farm animals, bred AKC German Shepherd's and was a proficient mechanic, fixing automobiles and small engines.

Dad loved playing his acoustic guitar. He loved old country music and would strum and sing along to Johnny Cash and Hank Williams classic tunes. Later in life he would continue playing with family members.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to PAWS 3371 Gaines Basin Rd. Albion, NY 14411.

Gerald’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

To share a special memory of Gerald, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.