Wilma J. Stekeur

Wilma J. Stekeur passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the age of 87 at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady after a swift bout of illnesses.

Wilma was born on August 14, 1937, to William & Mildred Mathias of Schenectady, NY. When “Jimmy” walked into her classroom as a new student when she was 10, she whispered to her best friend that she “was going to marry him one day”. Wilma persevered, following him with dedication and determination until they started dating in the ninth grade. Her wish came true when she married James Stekeur in 1957.  After graduating from Mont Pleasant High School, Wilma began a career as a secretary at General Electric. When her husband started S&S Waste Service in 1959, Wilma worked managing his office until they both retired. As her husband worked many hours a day to build his business, Wilma maintained their home and raised their four children. Wilma was a dear friend to many and always created a warm, loving, and comfortable home. Her passions included traveling, reading, and playing cards and games. She was never without one of her favorite authors. She shared her love of travel and her enjoyment of games with her entire family. She continued playing regularly each week, right up until her final months. Wilma will be remembered with love and fondness for her geniality and kindness, as well as her welcoming, positive attitude. Whenever hard times came or she wasn’t feeling well, her repeated mantra was “this too shall pass”.

Wilma is predeceased by her husband James C. Stekeur Sr., her daughter Joyce Weldon, , her parents William & Mildred Mathias, her sister Charlotte Schaperjahn, and her son-in-law Patrick DeLorenzo. She is survived by her children Sandra DeLorenzo of Guilderland, James (Sylvia) Stekeur Jr. of Burnt Hills, and Susan (Jerry) Wright of Voorheesville. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren Christopher (Brittany) Stekeur, Craig Stekeur (Cliff Hoppus), Kyle DeLorenzo, Eric (Leslie) DeLorenzo, Courtney (Mike) Piernock, Caitlyn Stekeur (Frankie), Lea Wright (Nick Mashuta), and Abbi (Nicholas) Raghubar. She delighted in much joy from her seven great-grandchildren who affectionately called her GG.

To celebrate her life and legacy, a memorial celebration will be held at Bond Funeral Home at 1614 Guilderland Ave, Schenectady on the future date of Saturday, May 17th at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to one of her favorite charities: City Mission of Schenectady or Community Hospice.