Steve Odierno New Jersey Death, Obituary – It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that the Saint Joseph Regional High School (SJR) community mourns the passing of Steve Odierno, beloved Director of Marketing, alumnus of the Class of 1993, and proud father. Steve’s sudden departure has left a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will forever be etched into the fabric of the SJR family.
Steve Odierno was more than a colleague or a professional—he was the embodiment of SJR’s spirit. A dedicated Green Knight, Steve infused every aspect of school life with energy, passion, and love. As Director of Marketing, he worked with tireless dedication to share the stories, values, and mission of the school he loved so deeply. He was often found behind the camera lens at events, capturing moments that showcased the heart of the school community. Whether he was highlighting student achievements, collaborating with faculty, or mentoring with quiet wisdom, Steve brought an infectious positivity that inspired everyone around him.
A graduate of the Class of ’93, Steve’s connection to SJR was deeply personal. He lived the school’s values of loyalty, compassion, and service in both his professional and personal life. His pride in his children, Steven ’23 and Katherine ’25 (IHA), was profound and unwavering. He celebrated every one of their milestones with a gleam in his eye and a heart full of joy. His role as a father was as central to his identity as his work at SJR, and he carried both responsibilities with grace and humility.
Steve’s warmth touched countless lives. He had a gift for making people feel seen, heard, and valued. His easy laughter, radiant smile, and caring presence made him a beloved figure among students, parents, alumni, faculty, and staff. He was the kind of person who brought calm in chaos, light in darkness, and hope in times of uncertainty. To his friends and colleagues, he was not only dependable but also deeply thoughtful—a steady presence whose influence will endure for years to come.
In recognition of Steve’s immeasurable impact, the SJR community will gather for services to honor his life. A wake will be held on Thursday, April 24, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at Vander Plaat Funeral Home in Wyckoff, NJ, followed by a Funeral Mass on Friday, April 25, at 10:30 AM at St. Elizabeth’s Church, also in Wyckoff. Furthermore, SJR will commence the school day with Mass on Monday, April 28, encouraging students to attend in respectful attire as a tribute to Steve’s legacy.
As we grieve, we also give thanks for having known a man of such character and heart. Steve Odierno’s legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. He will be missed beyond measure, but never forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family find comfort in the embrace of a community united by love and gratitude.