Steven G. Sloane

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Steven G. Sloane, 56, of Syracuse, on July 16, 2023. Born and raised in Syracuse, Steve was the son of the late Jack and Rosemary (Geidner) Sloane. He was a devoted husband, brother, uncle, and friend to many. Steve was the Superintendent of the Woodlawn Cemetery of Syracuse, where he dedicated his professional life to serving the community. He served on the Board of the NYS Association of Cemeteries (NYSAC) where he helped in preventing the abandonment of cemeteries across New York. Steve served more than a decade as Chairman of the NYSAC Government and Legal Affairs Committee, where he assisted with regional training of nonprofit leaders and led the annual public affairs conferences. He helped realize some of the most transformative public policy for cemetery and consumer protections in death care in more than a generation. Steve counseled governments and the funeral industry in ways to help grieving families and secure dignity for the victims of the COVID-19 pandemic. He quietly worked with the state response to the significant loss of life in NYC and worked long hours to make a real difference for affected New Yorkers. He also consulted with industry and technology companies to modernize cemetery access for grieving families no matter their location. In addition to his work with NYSAC, Steve was a member of the Ferncliff Cemetery Board of Directors and their Development and Audit Committees. His knowledge of cemetery operations and professionalism was invaluable to the association. Steve was a dedicated volunteer who found joy in giving back. Whether he was working with the Big Brothers and Big Sisters or serving as Treasurer of The Eastwood Lions Club, he always gave his time and resources generously to support the local community. Steve’s happy place was sitting outside of his Oneida Lake home and enjoying a beautiful breeze and sunset with his wife and dogs by his side. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Elizabeth A. (Wall) Sloane; three brothers, Greg (Joan) Sloane, Larry (Sandra) Sloane, and David (Anne) Sloane; his sister, Chris Sloane; nieces, Sara (Sean) Torpey, Nora Sloane, and Stephanie Sloane; his nephew, William Sloane; his great niece and nephew, Caitlin and Aiden; and his much-loved fur babies, Lucy and Louis. In addition to his parents, Steve was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Lesley Flick. His wife Beth would like to express her gratitude to Upstate Community Hospital Neuroscience 9-F ICU department for their exemplary efforts, care, and compassion. A funeral service in celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 10:00 am in the Cremation Center at Woodlawn, with burial to follow in Woodlawn Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 pm on Friday, July 21, 2023 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Wreaths of America, Attn: K. Woods, Woodlawn Cemetery 800 Grant Blvd, Syracuse, NY 13203 or a charity of your choice for the care of animals in need. Steve will be dearly missed by all who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Steven G. Sloane

November 6, 1966 - July 16, 2023