Obituary of Stephen R. Kalish

Stephen Richard Kalish, 61, of Waxhaw, NC entered into Eternal Rest on Monday, November 21, 2016. He suffered from cardiovascular and pulmonary complications. A Memorial Service to honor his life will be held at 2 PM Sunday, December 4, 2016 at Elmore Hill McCreight, 221 Broad Street, Sumter SC. Steve was born in Sumter, SC on November 7, 1955, the son of the late Joseph John Kalish, Sr., and Elizabeth Justice Kalish Housen. He graduated from Sumter High School and later attended University of South Carolina and Central Carolina Technical College. He became a Master Electrician specializing in Motor Control. He is survived by his son, Stephen Louis Kalish Ficchi, grandson, Caleb Ficchi, granddaughter, Gianna Ficchi and four brothers: Frank (Kris), Joseph, James/DD (Ann), and Bernard, and two sisters, Betsy (Owen) Zuro and Dolly (Mike) Brown. Steve was preceded in death by two brothers, Mike and Ralph Kalish, nephew, John F. Kalish, Jr. and niece, Melanie Kalish Rivera. Steve had a passion for many things during his life, starting with him learning to play the guitar as a young teenager to emulate the great Jimi Hendrix. His love of all types of music lasted until the end. He was an incredible cook and really loved being outdoors whether it involved horseback riding, scuba diving, hunting, hiking, spelunking, or digging for old treasures, but he was happiest of all when he went fishing. Steve had a particular affinity for rescuing both people and animals. He really worried about anyone or anything that might be in harm’s way and would try to help them out. Steve deeply loved his family and friends and will be sorely missed by both. Elmore Hill McCreight Funeral Home and Crematory, is in charge of the arrangements. 803-775-9386.