Stephen Patrick McNamara

Stephen Patrick McNamara, 78, of Tipperary Hill, passed away on Tuesday at home. Born on October 2, 1946, he graduated from West Genesee High School and continued his education at OCC before earning an associate degree from Syracuse University. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he served his country honorably during the Vietnam War.

Steve dedicated over 35 years to the Syracuse Police Department, retiring in 2004. He was a respected officer and a proud member of the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association. 

A man of deep faith, Steve was a communicant of St. Patrick's Church in Syracuse, where he found great comfort and community.

Steve was an active member of the American Legion Post 881 and the Lakeland Seniors, cherishing the camaraderie these organizations provided. A man of many passions, he enjoyed the outdoors, reveling in the beauty of nature. Whether hunting, fishing, or boating, he found joy in life's simple pleasures and shared those moments with his family and friends.

Above all, Steve treasured the time he spent with his family, especially his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His warmth, love, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Steve was predeceased by his wife, Jo, in 2014; three brothers; and two sisters.

Surviving are his daughters, Michele (Thomas) Heisey of Syracuse, Renee Stoutenger of Chittenango, and Jodi McNamara of Oswego; son, Stephen (Kim) McNamara of Lakeland; 12 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Judy Lambert of Syracuse and Christine (Ed) Brennan of Auburn; and several nieces and nephews.

To celebrate Steve’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Friday, December 20, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 9 a.m. in St. Patrick’s Church, 216 N. Lowell Ave., Syracuse. 

Steve will be laid to rest in Huron Evergreen Cemetery, Wolcott.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, The Cooper Center, 18251 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA 22172-1776, or to the Eternal Word Television Network, 5817 Old Leeds Rd., Irondale, AL 35210.