Steve Valdinger, Jr., 81

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Steve L. Valdinger, Jr, age 81, of Scio, passed away Friday, Feb. 9, 2024, at Lifecare Hospice Truman House in New Philadelphia surrounded by his family.

Born July 14, 1942, in Wheeling, WV, he was the son of the late Steve L. Valdinger Sr. and Anna Noska Nemeth Valdinger.

He graduated from Scio High School in 1960 and honorably served his country in the US Air Force from 1960-1964. Except for the time spent serving his country, Steve lived his entire life on the family farm, Gundy Ridge Farms. He took over the farm operations when he returned from the service and, after his father’s passing, continued the family legacy. He was also a heavy equipment mechanic for 40 years, working for Rebuild in Dennison from 1978-2011.

Steve was a member of Harrison County Farm Bureau and was a huge NASCAR fan who attended at least one race a year. He enjoyed live country music so much that in 2016 he built a room onto a barn at the farm and every Tuesday evening invited family and friends to listen to the jam session. He loved his family and was always willing to help anyone in need.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ava D. Shepler Valdinger, Aug. 7, 2008. They were married Aug. 1, 1960.

Surviving are sons Jerry (Sandy) Valdinger and Jim (Jill) Valdinger both of Scio and Joe (Cindy) Valdinger of Strasburg; grandchildren Stephen (Andrea) Valdinger, Stephanie (Brandon) Schott, Kayla Valdinger, Janelle (Matt) Innes, Tyler Valdinger and Bryant (Katie) Valdinger; great grandchildren Aria, Landon, Abigail, Harlow, Savannah, Amelia and Magnolia, and his companion, Rita Roach of the home.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at Gundy Ridge Farms, 36875 Gundy Ridge Rd., Scio, Saturday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Mike Cunningham officiating. Visitation with the family will be held three hours prior, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Lifecare Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663. Koch Funeral Home, Scio, is assisting the family with arrangements.