Age 68, of Wilmington, DE died unexpectedly Wednesday, September 30, 2026. His loss is felt deeply by his loved ones, colleagues, and students.

Born June 24, 1958, in Paterson, NJ, to Harold (Pat) and Helen Pasternak, Steve grew up in Fair Lawn, NJ with his siblings, Robyn Pasternak Guy (Russell), Donna Pasternak (Stanley Shulfer), and Scott Pasternak (Kallen Tsikalas). Steve is survived by siblings, Donna and Scott and their spouses; nephews, Jason Guy (Pamela) and Bryan Guy; and his nieces, Rebecca Ives (Johnny) and Halcyanna Pasternak.

An educational administrator, educator, and attorney, Steve attended undergraduate school at Curry College in MA, graduate school at Montclair State University in NJ and New York University in NY, and earned his J.D. and his Ed.D. at Seton Hall University in NJ. A fierce advocate for children and adults with disabilities, Steve worked most recently with the State of New Jersey Office of Special Education. Past employment included advocating for children and adults when he worked as a Learning Disabilities Specialist with the City of Orange, NJ; an Adjunct Instructor at Bloomfield College, also in NJ; an Academic Counselor/Learning Specialist with the Buck Harless Student Athlete Program at Marshall University in WV; and a Special Education Teacher at the Community School of Bergen County, NJ. Steve was honored with the Making a Difference Award with MarbleJam Kids.

A fervent outdoors enthusiast since childhood, he loved camping, hiking, boating, fishing, motorcycling, and traveling with the family; however, nothing made him happier than a Sunday afternoon spent in front of the TV watching professional football. His sharp wit and clever humor made these experiences memorable and cherished.

Please make memorial donations in Steve’s memory to The Community School (https://www.communityschoolk12nj.org/donate/).

Please join the family for a graveside service 11:00 am, Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at Mt. Lebanon Cemetery, 189 Gill Lane, Iselin, NJ 08830.