Stephen A. Fancher, age 69, of Caledonia, NY, passed away peacefully with the love and support of his family on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at NOYES Memorial Hospital. Born on April 11, 1954 he was son to the late Charles and Geraldine “Gerry” (Blonsky) Fancher. He was raised in the Ballantyne neighborhood of Chili, where he grew up living a carefree childhood and developing his non-conformist ways which continued to shape his character throughout his life. In 1972, he enlisted in the US Army where he proudly served his country overseas as 11B4O light weapons infantry unit. After his service, he returned to the US where he promptly went to work as a machinist at the Schlegel Company. As Stephen was never comfortable with being “tethered”, he left Schelgel’s in pursuit of happiness. He worked independently as a painter until he felt it was time to retire. Although he never pursued a formal post-secondary education, he was a learned student of life. He obtained a wealth of incomparable knowledge and experience in many disciplines from which he was happy to share, or discuss, with anyone who presented with an open ear.
Stephen will always be remembered by those closest to him for his unique way of communicating, his infectious laugh, and his tremendous sense of humor. Although worldly of mind and gypsy in spirit, he was content to stay close to home, take rides through the countryside, reminisce with those he cared for and visit his friends on Sundays. All knew him to have a tremendous appreciation for music and how he would use it as another language with which to speak when there were no words- like the artist does, it was an interesting medium to color a blank canvas in an effort to communicate a deeper idea. Stephen was also known for his grand stories of adventure and folklore, which became classics in their own right amongst his peers. He has truly left a mark on all those he came in contact with, and in some strange way, all are better for having known him. Always a character in his own play, he will be sorely missed and forever revered. … We hope there are enough condiments in the heavenly fridge!
Stephen is survived by his best-friend and wife, Donna Fancher. Also surviving is his former wife, Elizabeth Papageorge, with whom he continued to share a special bond. He also leaves behind his daughters, (Barbara Webb, mother of) Diane (Abe) Quintanilla of Naples, FL and (Rosemary Trenkler, mother of) Laura (Timothy) Pagano of Irondequoit, NY. Preceding him in death was his son, Steve Curts. He also leaves behind several other family members and very close friends. A very special thank you to Tim Young, Al Meyers, and Dane Trenkler for their continuous help, support, and unwavering friendship. Also, to Nurse Brandy of Livingston County Hospice for her attention, understanding, and guidance at a time when it was tremendously needed. The girls will be forever grateful to you.
To those wishing to attend and share memories, a Celebration of His Life will be held at 1:00pm on September 2, 2023 at the Webster Park Lakefront Lodge, located at 255 Holt Rd., Webster, NY. A Private Inurnment will take place at Bath National Cemetery at the family’s convenience. Please consider making donations to the American Legion Post 1830 in his memory.