Stephen R. Stalbaum, 81, of Valparaiso passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, December 23, 2023. He was born December 1, 1942, in Burdick, Indiana to Dale & Helen (Parker) Stalbaum. Steve served proudly with the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1964-66. He made his career as a Safety Technician for 39 years retiring from Arcelor-Mittal Steel. Beginning his career with Bethlehem Steel’s fire department lent itself well to his service as Chief and Assistant Chief with Morgan Township Volunteer Fire Department from 1976 – 1995. As a 32nd Degree Mason with Porter Lodge F & AM, and the Scottish Rite, Steve relished his lifetime of brotherhood and charitable activities. However, it was motorcycles and the adventures that came along with them as part of the Goldwing Riders Association that really brought a spark to his eye. He also enjoyed camping with his family.
On August 27, 1965, he married Orchid L. Key who survives along with their children; Tammy Lynn (Mark) Swafford of Athens, Tennessee, Melody Joy Stalbaum of Valparaiso & Naomi Larissa Stalbaum of San Diego, California, sister, Nancy White of Valparaiso, grandchildren; Samantha Swafford-Murphy, Zachary & Matthew Swafford, and great-grandson Wyatt Swafford. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Vivian Suffern, Elizabeth Wilson, Kenneth & John Stalbaum.
A visitation will be held Saturday from 12 noon – 2 pm at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Hobart Humane Society.
