Obituary of Stephen M. Kalilec

Stephen M. Kalilec, 72, of Cortland, NY, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026. Born on March 14, 1953, in Montreal, Canada, Stephen was the son of the late Fred and Nadine Zdasiuk Kalilec. He was also predeceased by his beloved brother Victor. He carried his love for Montreal with him throughout his life, returning often in memory and spirit to the city that shaped him. Stephen earned his MBA from Pace University, where he taught for a period of time. He was an executive at various levels and in multiple cities during his impressive career at Dannon, Merrill Lynch and Duracell, and eventually retired from HP Hood as their Director of Trade Marketing. He loved his career and took great pride in his work, offering steady leadership, sound judgment, and unwavering integrity. Throughout his career he built multiple trusting lifelong friendships. Even in retirement, Stephen continued to share his expertise, serving as a trusted consultant to many small businesses along the St. Lawrence River and in the North Country, generously offering thoughtful financial guidance and practical advice. An incredible reader with a deep and curious mind, Stephen immersed himself in fiction, poetry, and history. He was exceptionally intelligent yet humble, a minimalist who valued what truly mattered — relationships, knowledge, integrity, and time well spent with friends and family. He found great joy in "road tripping" to Clayton, and cherished being at "The River." Whether enjoying the view, fishing, judging a pumpkin chucking competition, or simply spending time with friends, he was happiest near the water. Stephen loved music, particularly the smooth, soulful sound of soft jazz carried by a saxophone. He had an incredibly dry sense of humor that caught many by surprise and delighted those who knew him well. He was a loyal friend — reliable, honest, supportive, and the kind of person who would do anything for anyone. The love between Stephen and his friends was mutual and enduring. He enjoyed Sausage Sundays at the "Barber Shop" with his friends. Stephen will be remembered as a man of intelligence and integrity, warmth and wit — a steady presence, a trusted advisor, and a true friend to everyone he met. Stephen is survived by his aunts Elizabeth Kalilec, Jean Kalilec, and Nadzieja (Harley) Finkelstein, his cousins Ellen (James) Robinson, Andrew (Maria) Kalilec, Eric (Andrée) Finkelstein, Debra Kalilec, Michael Kalilec, George (Julie Foquet) Zdasiuk, and his cousin-in-law Carlos Palacio. Calling hours will be held on Friday February 27, 2026, from 10-11am at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home, 9 Lincoln Ave., Cortland, NY, with a memorial service to follow at 11. Burial will take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to an organization of your choice.