Stephen ‘Steve’ Matthew Rumas
March 7, 1950 - February 26, 2023
Peacefully at home on Sunday, February 26, 2023, Steve passed away. Devoted husband of Carolyn (née Paige) for 50 years. Cherished, loving father of Matthew (Tonya) of St. Thomas, Paula (Leo Echeverry) of London, Jeff (Alyssa) of London, and Chris (Erika) of Sault Ste. Marie. Proud grandfather of Matthew, Caleb, Ben, Finn, Natalia, Jacob and Sebastian, and a new grandbaby coming in July. He is survived by his sister Carol Martin, her sons Ken and Paul of Kelowna, and nieces Brianne and Morgan Rumas. Predeceased by his parents Anne and Matthew, his brother Mike and uncles John and Syl Rumas.
Steve grew up in London, attended Catholic Central High School, and UWO (Western) graduating in 1972 with a degree in Computer Science. His 38-year working career was spent at Western in the Social Science Network and Data Services, loving the work he did and making lifelong friends with his colleagues, and in early retirement, he continued to take on projects for friends and former Western employees. In November 2006 he discovered a new love and passion, when he purchased his first motorcycle. Any day that he could get out on the road was pure pleasure, even on chilly winter days. He found a new group of riding friends and toured the winding roads at any opportunity, making as many trips as possible to Port Dover for Friday 13th (always sure to bring home a new motorcycle shirt to add to his 100+ collection). He enjoyed early morning coffee at Tim’s to have lively discussions of politics, riding and all the news of the day.
A diagnosis of non–Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 1996 did not stop him. For 29 years he endured rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, and also a stem cell transplant to battle the disease. In the fall of 2022, the cancer took a firm hold on him, but he made sure to enjoy Christmas with family and his favourite meal of pierogi.
Steve’s last few weeks were in palliative care at home with an amazing team of health care people. Our family thanks the London Regional Cancer Centre, Dr. Howson-Jan and his staff, the care team from St. Elizabeth and the VON. Dr. Kirk Hamilton, Dr. Jill, nurse Natalie, all the PSW’s who were here around the clock: Mercedes, Byron, Ashlynn, Amy, Heather, Stephanie, Bill, Bins, Drew and many more. Your sincere and consistent compassion, empathy, and devotion gave us strength each and every day, and for that we are forever grateful.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Steve’s memory may consider the London Health Sciences Foundation – Cancer Program, SE Health – London Office, or UNICEF Canada for Ukrainian Relief Aid.
Visitation will be held at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London on Thursday, March 2, 2023 from 2:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica, 196 Dufferin Avenue, London on Friday, March 3, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.
For those unable to attend the service in person, please click here to view the livestream: Livestream for the funeral mass of Stephen Rumas
Leave a tribute for Stephen ‘Steve’ Matthew Rumas
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To Matt, Tonya and Family, Sorry for your loss; our deepest sympathies during this heartbreaking time! May your father stay close to your heart, and your days will be filled with happy memories. He will always be with you. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Carolyn & family Our sincere condolences with the loss of Steve. A great neighbor who always had time for chat. He will be missed by many. Earlene and Russel Santor
Carolyn, I am saddened to read of Steve's passing. The obituary tells me that he remained the same as when I knew both of you at Western so many years ago (50+). I am happy to know that he retained his zest for life! Please accept my condolences. I will hold you, the family, and friends in my prayers.
My first impression of Steve was nice guy and I wasn’t wrong. Steve was a nice guy and I am glad that I knew him. Most of my memories are from lunches at the Wave with the boys were we discussed world problems and of course solved them in our eyes. The world will miss you Steve.
Carolyn. So sorry to see the notice of Steve's passing. Although I did not interact with Steve very often, the stories you told of him and your family time were enough to understand what a wonderful man he was. My condolences to you and your family. Maria--Eaton's, Masonville.
A donation has been made to UNICEF. Message from the donator: Carolyn & family, Our hearts go out to you all. God bless.
Sending love and hugs. He was a true warrior. His love for his family gave him the strength to fight as hard as he did. ♥️♥️
We are so sorry to hear about Steve. He was such a wonderful and kind man. I remember camping at the Pinery with you all, Steve made it so fun along with you all. So many memories. We send our deepest condolences to you all during this time. Michaela and Chris
Services for Stephen ‘Steve’ Matthew Rumas
Visitation will be held at:
Northview Funeral Chapel
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
March 2, 2023 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Visitation will be held at:
Northview Funeral Chapel
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
March 2, 2023 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Funeral Mass will be held at:
St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica
196 Dufferin Avenue,
London, Ontario
March 3, 2023 10:00 am
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To our extended family, Carolyn + Matthew, Paula, Jeff, Chris (and of course their partners (+) children) We are deeply saddened by the news of Steve’s passing. Our hearts and thoughts are with you and we send you all so much love during this hard time. I (Lauren) will especially miss hearing Steve’s voice and will cherish so many memories we all shared together over the years. He will be sorely missed by many. Please find a glimmer of happiness knowing Steve will live on in you and the memories you’ve shared with so many loved ones around you. What a beautiful man he truely was. We are so sorry for your loss. Big hugs with all our love, Lauren +Kiko
~ Lauren + Kiko (Airey-Guevara)