Stephen Joseph Siracusa, 89, of Dundee, died July 12, 2007 at Sherman Hospital in Elgin, IL.
Mr. Siracusa grew up in Grant City, Staten Island, NY. His first job as a paper boy, defined his future as an outstanding salesman. He won every trip the paper offered for top subscription sales.
The era in which Mr. Siracusa lived allowed him to witness many historic events including the launching of the maiden voyage of the Queen Mary and the refurbishing of The Spirit of St. Louis prior to its retirement at the Smithsonian. He attended the 1933 Chicago World's Fair and was present for the maiden voyage landing of the Graf Zeppelin at Lakehurst, NJ. He saw Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig play at Yankee Stadium and was on the Staten Island Ferry with Franklin Roosevelt and his entourage. Mr. Siracusa was in the National Guard, 51st Cavalry, which was the last U.S. cavalry. Later, during WWII, Mr. Siracusa rose to the rank of Captain in the 212th Coast Guard Artillery Battalion. He served in the U.S. and saw combat duty in Europe. Most memorable, was his assignment at the Nuremberg Trials in Germany.
While in Germany, Mr. Siracusa met and married Edna Skowbo who was on assignment at the trials with Chief Justice Jackson.
After the war, Mr. Siracusa worked for Schenley Liquors & Valley Liquors. He developed Aberdeen Real Estate and was a broker. Upon retirement, Mr. Siracusa worked for the Elgin Courier News and later Service Master. For the past year and a half, Mr. Siracusa volunteered daily at the Infusion/Pain Clinic at Sherman Hospital, Elgin where he was an inspiration to many patients and staff members. Prior to his recent illness, he walked 2 miles daily, at Springhill Mall in Dundee and will be missed by his many dear friends and fellow walkers.
Mr. Siracusa is survived by his children: Diane Siracusa (Tad Bero) of Salem, MO, Dennis (Beverly) of Charlotte, NC; and Joan (Randy) Wakeman of Littleton, CO; eight grandchildren; and his beloved brother, Danny of Connecticut.
He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, brothers, Clemente and John and his sister, Josephine.
