Steven Charles Kumka
August 20, 1950 ~ May 14, 2022
Steven Charles Kumka 71, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife, Kathleen of 48 years, and four children, on Saturday, May 14, 2022.
Steve was born on August 20th, 1950, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He was the only son to Stephen Kumka and Shirley (Graulich), surrounded by three sisters, Patty, Mary and Barbara. Steve graduated from South River High School in 1968 and went on to complete his bachelor's degree from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1972. After returning home to Spotswood, NJ, Steve married Kathleen Keenan on March 2nd, 1974 and lived happily married for 48 years.
Steve and Kathleen moved to Sanford, Maine in 1985 after he accepted a management position with Shaw's Distribution Center, where he retired from in 2013. With retirement came winters in Florida but Steve couldn't stay away from work too long. He spent time working at Cape Arundel Golf Course and Atria Assisted Living in Kennebunk. When Steve moved their family to town, he quickly became an active member in the community. From volunteer work with the United Way, York County Food Pantry, Project Literacy to coaching his children in sports. Steve was a father figure to not only his own four children, but many other kids in town. The Kumka household was, and still is, a familiar place for kids in Sanford. Steve was an avid New York Yankees and Giants fan. Not an easy thing living in a Boston sports world. Even still, he had many lifelong family friends in town. He enjoyed golfing with his sons, especially the trip they took to Ireland, attending concerts with Kathy and friends, vacationing as a family, which always included extra kids. And most importantly, Steve loved spending his days being in the stands at his kids' sporting events.
Steve lived for his family. He was a loving father to Christopher Kumka and his wife Chambree of Sanford, ME, Kenneth Kumka and his fiance Shiloh Legere of Lyman, ME, Kelly Escayg and her husband Kareem of Tampa, FL, and Coleen Paradis and her husband Justin of Sanford, ME. He was also a proud "Bampy" to his nine grandchildren Lily, Colton, Keenan, Conley, Brooks, Cooper, Kylan, Ellis and Wes.
Steve is survived by Edward Krakowski of Pensacola, FL, Wayne & Mary Fiorino of North Brunswick, NJ, Barbara Styles & Pete Pizer of South Amboy, NJ, Robert & Patricia Dyckmanof Jamesburg, NJ, Martin & Jeannie Keenan of Bethlehem, PA, Kenneth & Susan Keenan of Lancaster, PA, Thomas & Jamie Keenan of Lancaster, PA, Kevin & Jamie Keenan of the Spotswood, NJ and many nieces and nephews. Steve was predeceased by Stephen Kumka, Shirley (Graulich) Murphy, and Patricia Krakowski.
The Kumka family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Pinnacle Health & Rehab in Sanford along with Compassus Hospice Care for their wonderful care through the final months of Steve's vibrant life.
To honor Steve's memory, the family is holding a celebration of life on Thursday, May 19th from 5-8PM at Sanford Country Club. A life so wonderfully lived, deserves to be wonderfully remembered. There will be a funeral held at 11AM Friday, May 20th at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Parish, Holy Family Church followed by a private, family burial at St. Ignatius cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.
To leave a message of condolence for the family please click on the Tribute Wall.
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Dear Kathy and family- although I didnt know Steve well his impact on the Sanford community was felt by many- my heart goes out to all of you as you navigate this next chapter in life – be patient with yourselves and know that many warm thoughts and hugs are coming your way- Cathy Baker
– Cathy Baker
With deepest sympathy, may every reminder and memory bring an overwhelming sense of joy to your soul.
– Carrie Langlais Furr
Our heartfelt condolences to the Kumka family. Steve will be remembered as a caring and generous soul. We are so sorry for your loss.
– Jeff and Rita Daigle
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a TreeAcknowledging Steve’s life with a tree planting is a lovely sentiment. The image of what tree would reflect Steve’s life best, especially in recent years is the Oak w deep roots. Love Tom & Kate
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a TreeWe are very sorry for your loss. Steve was a kind person who will be missed tremendously. The Carney Family
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Thanks Judy
– Kathy kumka
A Memorial Tree was planted for Steven Charles Kumka
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Black Funeral Homes-Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home
Join in honoring their life – plant a memorial tree
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Sending healing prayers & hugs.Steve was a shining example of complete dedication & devotion to his wife & family.Whenever we think of Steve “basketball’ comes to mind.He is someone who will be missed by all who knew him.Our Heartfelt Sympathies May he rest in peace God Bless Hans & Susan
– Susan Boudreau Grannell
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Elaine & Brent . Plant a TreeWe will miss Steves kindness, laugh and twinkle in his eyes. You and your children were always mentioned with warmth, humor and pride by Steve. Wishing you peace and warmth. Love Elaine & BrentElaine & Brent
– Elaine & Brent
Deepest Sympathy Kathy and family, May the many wonderful memories help sustain you in the days ahead.
– Barbara Phillips
I will always be thankful for the encouragement and support that Steve gave us all growing up in the community. The Kumka door was always open and everyone was welcome.
Our Deepest Condolences,
Cory & Stacey Adams
– Cory Adams
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a TreeSo sorry for your loss, Rick and eveyone at That Place In Ogunquit
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Larry & Darlene (Angersbach) Mauro. Plant a TreeOur deepest sympathy. May Steve now rest in paradise and may you all be comforted by Gods grace.Larry & Darlene (Angersbach) Mauro
– Larry & Darlene (Angersbach) Mauro
Steve was an amazing man to take care of. Im honored to have been able to care for him at St.Andre. Hes made me smile many times. He will always be a happy memory in my heart.
– Danyelle Gay
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Meredith R French. Plant a TreeColeen and Family,So incredibly sorry for the loss of your dear Dad. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Hell never stop loving you! Love to you all-Meredith (Rowden) French & FamilyMeredith R French
– Meredith R French
Dan and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Steve was a wonderful person and touched many lives, especially all the kids that were so welcome in your home. He was a positive influence and loved by many.
– Connie Roux
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a Tree
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a Tree
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a Tree
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a Tree
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A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka. Plant a Tree
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Alyssa and myself want to share that we both are praying for your family at this time. Donna Hodgdon, Alyssa Hodgdon Oliveira
– Donna Hodgdon
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Donna and Jim Hamer. Plant a TreeDear Kathy and Family,Jim and I send you all our heartfelt condolences at this sad time. Steve was a wind man and will be greatly missed by his large, extended family and all the lives he touched.Donna and Jim Hamer
– Donna and Jim Hamer
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Barbara Howlett. Plant a TreeSorry for your family’s loss.Barbara Howlett
– Barbara Howlett
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by McNally. Plant a TreeIts tough to find the words at times like this. So many great memories growing up with Mr K as part of our lives. I think back of all the times we laughed so hard at the Kumka house!Much loveMcNally
– McNally
So sorry for the families loss, prayers and hugs sent your way!
– Tammy Smith
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Kayla Pelletier . Plant a TreeHow lucky you all were to be loved by such a beautiful soul. Thinking of you all, grateful to have known him. XoKayla Pelletier
– Kayla Pelletier
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Kathleen Ross and Matt Chapdelaine. Plant a TreeSo deeply sorry for your loss. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers.Kathleen Ross and Matt Chapdelaine
– Kathleen Ross and Matt Chapdelaine
In memory of your beloved husband and father, The Escayg Family sends their condolences. We are sorry for your loss.
Love,
Peter, Julie, Randa, and Ruth
– The Escayg’s
Kelly & Kumka family,
Please accept my deepest sympathies for your loss. Mr. Kumka was always a strong force with us on the court and on the soccer field. His memory will live on with all of the stories.
– KC & Eli Gamboa
Remembering all the good times
– The Laphams
To the Kumka family: We are sending our condolences and best thoughts your way. Mr. Kumka and family were always so much fun and full of energy. So many memories around sports and beyond. So sorry for your loss but he left so much positive in the world to celebrate that we are hopeful the good times are the times you reminisce. –
– Jake & Allison Langlais
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
– Michelle Mondor
So deeply sorry to Kathy and family for this incredible loss. Such an amazing man.
A candle was lit in remembrance
– KKathleen Ross and Matt Chapdelaine
My heart goes out to all the Kumka family. A great family. A great man who I have had the privilege to know not only him but his wife and children.
– Karol LHeureux
Kathy and family, Im so sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers.
– Lisa Miller
Kathy and family. So very sorry to hear of Steves passing. I will always remember that impish grin on his face.
A candle was lit in remembrance
– Diane Drapeau
A Memorial tree was ordered in memory of Steven Charles Kumka by Ruth and Patricia Murphy. Plant a TreePlease accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.Ruth and Patricia Murphy
– Ruth and Patricia Murphy
Through so many years working for and with Steve we both started out young and a bit immature. Over the years was built a mutual respect and by the time he retired a friendship. Running into Steve a few years ago on a golf course in Florida we got to catch up and share a hug like friends do. It was the last time I saw him and the lasting memory I will keep with me. He was a good man.
– Darren Boynton
Kathy and family; so sorry for your loss…you were great neighbors; and Beannie being Jerry’s FAVORITE.
– Judy A Arsenault