Stephen Schad

Stephen M. Schad, a beloved son, brother, partner, friend, and mentor, passed away on November 29, 2025, at the age of 71. A musician extraordinaire, sound guru, and lighting genius, Steve embodied the rare gift of turning passion into purpose. He often said he never worked a day in his life, because every moment spent in music and production was exactly where he wanted to be.

A distinguished figure in the Central New York music community, Steve was inducted into the SAMMYs Hall of Fame with a Lifetime Achievement Award—an honor that reflected not only his immense technical talent but also his decades of dedication to the musicians, venues, and audiences of the region. He played in multiple bands, contributed to countless musical productions, and generously mentored emerging artists, always sharing his knowledge, enthusiasm, and trademark kindness. His absence will be deeply felt by the CNY music community he helped shape.

Steve’s gifts extended far beyond the stage. He could build, fix, or troubleshoot anything, lending his skills freely to anyone who needed a hand. His flair for landscaping left a living legacy in the gardens and outdoor spaces of friends and family, each touched by his creativity and care. Known as a master of puns, he was always ready with a groaner or a playful twist of phrase to spark a smile.

Steve is predeceased by his adopted father, Frank Schad; his father, Richard Vanek; and his brother, Kenneth Schad.

Steve is survived by the love of his life, Patti Sobotka; his stepfather and mother, Mike and Arlene Brick; brothers Robert Schad, Timothy (Linda) Schad, Lawrence (Colleen) Schad, and Peter (Rashmi) Vanek; sisters Patrice (James) Colling, Kristen (Chuck Niederhofer) Schad, Sheryl (Tracy) Warren, Katrina Vanek (Craig) Shallahamer, Cheryl Vanek Layman, and Marcia Vanek (James) Fryslie; as well as many adoring aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews—and a deeply saddened CNY music community.

Above all, Steve will be remembered as a genuinely caring person—someone who gave freely of his time, energy, and heart. His presence enriched the lives of all who knew him.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 705 N. Main St., North Syracuse, NY 13212, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a sharing of memories.

To view a livestream of the memories being shared Click Here

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Kevin Dean's drum circle, 6647 Kirkville Road, East Syracuse, NY 13057

May his music—and his memory—continue to resonate.

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