March 30, 2023
March 30, 2023
I still think about Steve, great guy. When we drive by places he had sporting events my kids are telling me I remember this place is where Steve had his practices.
Steven Berube, a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend was taken too soon from us Friday March 27 2020 at just 59 years old.
Steven was born August 21, 1960 to Charles and Pat Berube in Holyoke, MA. He resided in Chicopee through his childhood and graduated from Chicopee Comp in 1978. He met his wife Lisa while both working at Burger King in 1981 and they've been creating a wonderful life together since. He briefly worked at John Hancock in Boston before moving back to work for Mass Mutual in western MA where he finished his career as a systems analyst in 1995. For the last 16 years Steve and his family have settled in Westfield, MA, after living in Feeding Hills, MA and Hebron, CT.
Overcoming many obstacles in his life, including a car accident which lead to a brain injury that left him with a disability that many would have pity over. Steven always looked to taking his weaknesses and finding a positive way to help others in similar circumstances. He founded Ultimate Sports Program which teaches social inclusion through sports. He wanted to let out a message that ANYONE can accomplish anything they set their mind to.
Steven was a man who did not take no for answer. He could convince anyone of anything, and if you knew him at all, you knew he loved to argue with a smile and a wave of his hands. This lead to so many great opportunities he created for his family, his sports program, and everyone that was part of his life. From walking the Garden floor, to Fenway's bases, to Walt Disney's attractions, he spent his life LIVING every moment.
He loved his family more than anything, whether he was coaching his two sons sports teams, searching for gigs for his daughter, or playing dominoes on the porch with his wife, his world revolved around family. As a member of Saint Mary's Parish his faith was strong. He believed in heaven and he spoke of how he was never scared to see it. Steven truly lived each day to the fullest and never let anything get in the way.
Steven is survived by his loving wife Lisa and their children, Christopher, Stephanie, and Sean, his father Charles, and his siblings, Debbie Berube, Cindy (Bruce) Socha, Mark (Katy) Berube, and Matt (Robin) Berube, and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He will be remembered for his humor, his generous acts of kindness, and his loving understanding ways of going through life. He is up in heaven petting his beloved dog Brittany, holding his mothers hand, and watching over us all.
Limitations from the state, due to the Corona outbreak restrict us from having services at this time. Once things calm down we will plan a Celebration of Life to commemorate Steve just the way he would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, contributions made to Ultimate Sports Program: http://uspkids.com/index_files/Page621.htm
would mean the world to Steven as that was his pride and joy.
Steven was born August 21, 1960 to Charles and Pat Berube in Holyoke, MA. He resided in Chicopee through his childhood and graduated from Chicopee Comp in 1978. He met his wife Lisa while both working at Burger King in 1981 and they've been creating a wonderful life together since. He briefly worked at John Hancock in Boston before moving back to work for Mass Mutual in western MA where he finished his career as a systems analyst in 1995. For the last 16 years Steve and his family have settled in Westfield, MA, after living in Feeding Hills, MA and Hebron, CT.
Overcoming many obstacles in his life, including a car accident which lead to a brain injury that left him with a disability that many would have pity over. Steven always looked to taking his weaknesses and finding a positive way to help others in similar circumstances. He founded Ultimate Sports Program which teaches social inclusion through sports. He wanted to let out a message that ANYONE can accomplish anything they set their mind to.
Steven was a man who did not take no for answer. He could convince anyone of anything, and if you knew him at all, you knew he loved to argue with a smile and a wave of his hands. This lead to so many great opportunities he created for his family, his sports program, and everyone that was part of his life. From walking the Garden floor, to Fenway's bases, to Walt Disney's attractions, he spent his life LIVING every moment.
He loved his family more than anything, whether he was coaching his two sons sports teams, searching for gigs for his daughter, or playing dominoes on the porch with his wife, his world revolved around family. As a member of Saint Mary's Parish his faith was strong. He believed in heaven and he spoke of how he was never scared to see it. Steven truly lived each day to the fullest and never let anything get in the way.
Steven is survived by his loving wife Lisa and their children, Christopher, Stephanie, and Sean, his father Charles, and his siblings, Debbie Berube, Cindy (Bruce) Socha, Mark (Katy) Berube, and Matt (Robin) Berube, and many nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He will be remembered for his humor, his generous acts of kindness, and his loving understanding ways of going through life. He is up in heaven petting his beloved dog Brittany, holding his mothers hand, and watching over us all.
Limitations from the state, due to the Corona outbreak restrict us from having services at this time. Once things calm down we will plan a Celebration of Life to commemorate Steve just the way he would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, contributions made to Ultimate Sports Program: http://uspkids.com/index_files/Page621.htm
would mean the world to Steven as that was his pride and joy.
Tributes
Leave a tribute
March 29, 2023
March 29, 2023
3 years later and whenever I'm watching one of our shows I hear him laughing next to me. Whenever I listen to our songs I see him zoning into the music with me. Whenever I'm singing lullabies to my sweet baby girl I can hear him singing along with me. Steve has been gone for 3 years, but he still lives on everyday watching over us all. Alright dad, let's take Stevie to Disney.
March 27, 2023
March 27, 2023
My family and I mention Steve so often. So many of our favorite memories involve him!
We continue to pray God’s comfort for his family.
Karin Coutsouridis
We continue to pray God’s comfort for his family.
Karin Coutsouridis
March 27, 2023
March 27, 2023
I think about Steve all the time. Miss him dearly. How he brought joy to so many people. Ed O'Brien
March 27, 2023
March 27, 2023
Steve was fantastic, one of the best guys in the world, he was so good to my family and we will remember him forever.
March 27, 2022
March 27, 2022
In February my daughter Jalyn reached a milestone of 1000 points for her Varsity Basketball team. Throughout the season we continued to think about Steve. During USP Steve was always excited for and encouraging to Jalyn. Steve would have absolutely loved to see Jalyn play in High School. It was so fitting that Sean was at the game in Charleston SC when Jalyn reached 1000 points. We are forever thankful for Steve’s impact and love for all of our kids.
April 11, 2021
April 11, 2021
Prayers are with Steve’s family. Still cannot believe it and keep hoping to see everyone again. Does anyone know if uspkids will be starting up again in? He was the first person outside of family to treat my daughter as a normal person. He will be, and still is, sorely missed.
April 10, 2021
April 10, 2021
HI
I am wondering if there would be any interest in as a tribute to hold a Ultimate Football Tournament/Game once a year. My phone is 413 262 1334 email is 68mchak@gmail.com
I am wondering if there would be any interest in as a tribute to hold a Ultimate Football Tournament/Game once a year. My phone is 413 262 1334 email is 68mchak@gmail.com
March 27, 2021
March 27, 2021
Thinking of all of Steven’s Family and Friends today on the first anniversary of his death. It’s been a trying year for them all but, a blessing as his daughter and niece got married. I’m sure that he was looking down from Heaven sending blessing with a smile.
April 4, 2020
April 4, 2020
Steve Berube was the father of one of my closest friends, and when I was around him he always treated me like family. Steve always made sure to invite me to USP events and was always very welcoming and happy to see me participate. I will always remember the endless support Steve offered me for my choice to be a professional musician. I will never forget the kindness Steve showed to me and all others who were around him. I am very sad that the world has lost such a genuine, compassionate, and charitable man, but the mark he left on the world will never be forgotten. God bless you Steve, may you rest easy in the arms of the Lord.
April 2, 2020
April 2, 2020
Steve and his kindness will be greatly missed. Through the USP program my daughter Raina and her siblings were able to have experiences and do things together. He never let Raina be left out and he made sure everyone saw how great she is. I can’t say enough about what Steve did for our family. My children were lucky to learn about sports and also what true compassion are. Our thoughts are with the Berube family.
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
I participated in USP as a young child with Steve and I have only fond memories of his kindness and encouragement. I was lucky to also see all of my siblings participate in his program as they grew older and only further witnessed how he was able to make everyone feel included no matter there physical or mental ability as my sister is blind and special needs, and he still made sure she was involved as much as anyone. Steve will be sorely missed by our family and I only hope the best for his.
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
I had to sit with this email a while before writing. What a tragic loss. Lisa and family, I am so sorry. Steve was such a genuine example of quietly leaving the world a better place. I still remember when my daughter was very young and wanted to join one of the USP soccer games. And to be goalie! This was a terrible idea. But Steve let her, and assigned a much older boy to make sure she didn't get pummeled. Berube family, I am wishing you peace and the comfort of happy memories.
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
Thank you Steve for working with my kids for years, and all you have done for other. Your program was the best.
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
I am so deeply saddened to hear this news. Steve will be always remembered in our family. He was the reason we got to visit Disney World for the first time and he was always so loving and caring with Bryanty. He always made sure we were aware of all the events in USP and he really made a difference not only in Bryanty’s life but in our entire family’s life by providing availability to so many programs for families like ours with disabled children. We Love you Steve and you will be greatly missed.
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE BURBE FAMILY. STEVE WAS THE KINDEST, MOST GENTLE, SOFT SPOKEN MAN THERE EVER WAS, I WII ALWAYS remember the USP events , and the trip to Disney world. He would always come over and shake my hand and we would talk. I admired his way of encouraging the USP kids to do what they thought they couldn't do. He is truly a hero and an inspiration to all the kids at USP. Sincerely , Jack Butcher
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
A heartfelt loss to our community and beyond. We participated in some amazing activities that my kids will never forget through USP. That is a lasting legacy that the Berube family can be so proud of, because USP and Steve have positively impacted so many. Thank you for all your family has done over the years to support and include those with different abilities. Steve will not be forgotten. Our prayers and comfort to your family during this time and beyond.
Sincerely,
The Antuna family
Sincerely,
The Antuna family
March 30, 2020
March 30, 2020
We have truly lost one of the greats... Steve was 1 of a kind He had a tremendous impact on my children and myself... wanting to do better and strive for That next level of achievement we have found out through Steve... It's amazing what you can do when you can't turn back.
Rest in pease my friend...We will always remember you.
Rest in pease my friend...We will always remember you.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
He was involved in so many aspects of my life. He was my baseball coach, basketball coach, USP leader, and ccd teacher. Not many get that involved and have such a huge impact on others. As a kid, I always remembered him as being the cool adult. It's incredible that you did all of it because you loved it. You left a permanent and positive impact on this world - thank you, rest in peace
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Even though it’s only been a few years that I have known Steve. I feel like I loss a long time friend. His passion for having every kid no matter their abilities fit into my brothers MO. That is why helping to support some of the USPkids programs, in memory of my brother James, was such a perfect fit. I had met Steve and Sean at a fund raiser and wanted to know more about their program, so I went to Westfield State a few Saturday mornings to watch them in action. There was no doubt in my mind after seeing all the smiles and how every kid adored Steve that I knew what I had to do. I called it controlled chaos. We met a few times to talk over what we could do. Steve said “he knew his kids and their families” and our first event was put together in no time! After that, I knew if any obstacles were put in front of Steve, he would overcome them for the kids no matter what. Thanks to Steve’s love and dedication the world is a better place. You are deeply missed.
Condolence to the Berube family, Edward & Joan O’Brien
Condolence to the Berube family, Edward & Joan O’Brien
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Words aren’t enough. I am still in disbelief. Steve was not only a friend to the Almeida's, but he became family. Once you got to know Steve, there was no turning back. He had your heart and friendship. He was loyal, encouraging and hilarious! We have so many great memories that will live on forever. As my family weeps for the loss of Steve, we can’t help but start smiling and giggling once we share stories about our time with him. He brought joy and laughter and that is how we will always remember him. I hope he knows as he looks down on us that we love Sean as a son and we will always be here for him, as he was always there for our son.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
So sorry to hear about Steve's passing. I started taking my son and daughter to USP even about 10 years ago. My son would still have me take him t o ininUltimate Football. We are going to miss him and I hope I can help out in keeping USP going.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Dear Lisa, Sean, Stephanie, and Chris please accept my most sincere sympathy in honor of your husband, and father. He will be sadly missed because he was such a good special person who was always thinking about others. I am truly blessed to have known him and your beautiful family. Sending prayers and blessings.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
My son and I have not participated with USP for some time, But because Steve lead such an incredible program for kids who aren’t able to socially participate with other kids on a “normal” level, We had some pretty incredible experiences that were not only inclusive for my son, but made me feel better as a mom. I remember going to the zoo, It was like a private tour. Steve told these great stories about how he used to bring some of those animals back to his house to help care for them. He would always say that situations could be worse, as we were bracing ourselves after hearing the story of his accident, and the best thing to help yourself was to help others if you could. What a great attitude and wonderful man. I am sorry to hear of his passing.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
This is so sad. I loved Steven. I can't believe he is gone. USP was one of the best things that ever happened to Western Massachusetts and still is. We had such wonderful memories taking part in all of the USP events over the years. I and my family will miss Steven so much. We were friends. He was such a genuine guy. He cared so much about children and their development. There is no one like him.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
My brother Steve has been taking care of me his whole life.
For some reason since his passing I can’t get this memory out of my head so I’m guessing he wants it out there
I was about seven or eight. My brothers were going to a Celtics game with my dad and I wasn’t going because I was too little so I went over the Mandalay court to shoot around. On the way back there some delinquents on the bridge that crossed the creek right behind our house. They wouldn’t let me cross so I had to go all the way around a different way...when I got up to one of our friends houses my brother was there and asked what was was wrong. When I told him he sprinted down to the bridge dragged the kid who wouldn’t let me cross off the bridge and was holding him down head in the water until he swore never to hang around there again and more importantly never mess with his brother again. Mind you this was like an hour and a half before they were leaving for the game and now he’s covered in mud and clay from the creek. We had to do his laundry at the friends house so that my dad wouldn’t hear about the fight behind the house. We got it done. They went to the game without incident. But that was my brother. He did things for others without thought or consequence to what could happen to him. I hope I can do him proud.
For some reason since his passing I can’t get this memory out of my head so I’m guessing he wants it out there
I was about seven or eight. My brothers were going to a Celtics game with my dad and I wasn’t going because I was too little so I went over the Mandalay court to shoot around. On the way back there some delinquents on the bridge that crossed the creek right behind our house. They wouldn’t let me cross so I had to go all the way around a different way...when I got up to one of our friends houses my brother was there and asked what was was wrong. When I told him he sprinted down to the bridge dragged the kid who wouldn’t let me cross off the bridge and was holding him down head in the water until he swore never to hang around there again and more importantly never mess with his brother again. Mind you this was like an hour and a half before they were leaving for the game and now he’s covered in mud and clay from the creek. We had to do his laundry at the friends house so that my dad wouldn’t hear about the fight behind the house. We got it done. They went to the game without incident. But that was my brother. He did things for others without thought or consequence to what could happen to him. I hope I can do him proud.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Dear Charles, Lisa, and Steve's children,
God has taken your son, husband, Dad, and sibling into His Loving Arms. Although He did this in such a sudden way, you know that God must have said that Steve's work, on earth, was done and it was time to come home, and help to watch over you, as you carry on with the love and lessons that he taught you.
Our Lord will be with you as you grieve the loss of a very good man.
Prayerfully,
Richard and Mary Lou Pieczarka
God has taken your son, husband, Dad, and sibling into His Loving Arms. Although He did this in such a sudden way, you know that God must have said that Steve's work, on earth, was done and it was time to come home, and help to watch over you, as you carry on with the love and lessons that he taught you.
Our Lord will be with you as you grieve the loss of a very good man.
Prayerfully,
Richard and Mary Lou Pieczarka
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Steve was the most selfless man I knew, brutally honest, passionate and whole heartedly dedicated to his family. He was an unforgiving workaholic, which was admirable and inspiring. To me, and for undoubtedly many, he was a father figure, a teacher, a coach, a leader, and ultimately a fighter. Steve created an outlet for others to embrace and appreciate their individuality and uniqueness and within, developed a forever family that will carry on his legacy and that will live on with his name.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Steve came into our lives years ago, an entirely unexpected blessing and joy. His passing leaves a void that can scarcely be comprehended.
Thanks to Steve, for loving us all so well.
We pray for his family, that God might be your comfort. Our hearts are full for you.
Thanks to Steve, for loving us all so well.
We pray for his family, that God might be your comfort. Our hearts are full for you.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
I was shocked to see your email today....I haven't opened them in a while since my child is older now. But I have referred so many others to the sports program who just needed a respite from their challenges in life. The generous sacrifices in behalf of other families won't be forgotten. To Steven's family and all who knew him, I am sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed!
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
So sorry for Steve's passing. He was the nicest and most understanding person I have met. He was incredible with getting everyone interested and involved in all the activities. He will be greatly greatly missed and we are very lucky and happy to have known him. Our condolences and prayers to you all. God Bless.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
I am so sad to hear about Steve passing. I am a student of occupational therapy and his program was recommended to us to better understand the importance of inclusion in sports. He was an amazing man; impossible to keep up with. He welcome my classmates and I with open arms. He played a huge role in my education and he will be missed. USP will stay alive.
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
I am deeply saddened by this news - my heart goes out to all of us. I, too, am unsure how to share this news with my sons* - one who thoroughly enjoyed the sports, the other who thoroughly enjoyed Steve's company, especially the talks. Because he took the time to talk to my son, I know he was not afraid to go. His love for life and appreciation for the moments will be part of his legacy to us.
* Update - I started the conversation with the boys by asking Andrew if he remembered visiting Steve to drop off our Disney money (he distinctly remembered the dogs there). I asked if he remembered some of what they talked about (life after death) and if he remembered what Steve said. Andrew recalls that they were discussing what they might come back as "in the next life" and Steve asked him what if he came back as a plant or something. It was a beautiful segue to let him know that Steve passed. We recalled that Steve said he was not afraid to die. Andrew is happy that now Steve is with his mom and his canine.
From Dominic, "I'm sorry for your loss"
* Update - I started the conversation with the boys by asking Andrew if he remembered visiting Steve to drop off our Disney money (he distinctly remembered the dogs there). I asked if he remembered some of what they talked about (life after death) and if he remembered what Steve said. Andrew recalls that they were discussing what they might come back as "in the next life" and Steve asked him what if he came back as a plant or something. It was a beautiful segue to let him know that Steve passed. We recalled that Steve said he was not afraid to die. Andrew is happy that now Steve is with his mom and his canine.
From Dominic, "I'm sorry for your loss"
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
I am very sorry to hear about Steve’s passing. I’m sending love and hopes for comfort during this very difficult time. I’m so sorry for your loss, Lisa and your family.
Julie (Dowd) Donahue
Julie (Dowd) Donahue
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Steve we are so so devastated at the Cree house! I don’t even know how to put your loss into words! You changed Ava’s life by building up her confidence so much! She would always leave USP holding her head a little higher! As she cried last night she shared “ and we both hated soccer” and we shared a giggle! She mourned that we never visited Disney with you but I have promised her that we will in memory of you Steve!
Ava vows to help Sean keep USP alive and we will stand behind her! I will end with my favorite memory being the doggie pool party! Praying continuously for your precious family! Much love the Cree Family
Ava vows to help Sean keep USP alive and we will stand behind her! I will end with my favorite memory being the doggie pool party! Praying continuously for your precious family! Much love the Cree Family
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Steve touched my 10 year old son Evan's life in a way that changed his life.
When Evan first met Steve he was only 5 and was scared to enter the Westfield State gym. He wore headphones and would only stay for a few minutes.
By the time he was 6 he was running around without any headphones having fun.
He opened up a love of sports for Evan which has given him social opportunities as well as gave him something to share with his father.
Steve called Evan "the time keeper" because he always let him known when it was time to go.
I'm deeply saddened by this loss and have no idea how to tell my son. He really looked up to him.
He has changed so many lives. What he did with the USP program was beyond phenomenal. He is a special person and will be missed by myself, Evan and every USP family.
God bless Steve and his beautiful children and family.
Michele Douglas
When Evan first met Steve he was only 5 and was scared to enter the Westfield State gym. He wore headphones and would only stay for a few minutes.
By the time he was 6 he was running around without any headphones having fun.
He opened up a love of sports for Evan which has given him social opportunities as well as gave him something to share with his father.
Steve called Evan "the time keeper" because he always let him known when it was time to go.
I'm deeply saddened by this loss and have no idea how to tell my son. He really looked up to him.
He has changed so many lives. What he did with the USP program was beyond phenomenal. He is a special person and will be missed by myself, Evan and every USP family.
God bless Steve and his beautiful children and family.
Michele Douglas
March 29, 2020
March 29, 2020
Thank you for being a champion for all children of all abilities. Thank you for always including Clinton. You will be missed, but we will are grateful to have known you. Rest Easy Steve.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
March 30, 2023
March 30, 2023
I still think about Steve, great guy. When we drive by places he had sporting events my kids are telling me I remember this place is where Steve had his practices.
March 29, 2023
March 29, 2023
3 years later and whenever I'm watching one of our shows I hear him laughing next to me. Whenever I listen to our songs I see him zoning into the music with me. Whenever I'm singing lullabies to my sweet baby girl I can hear him singing along with me. Steve has been gone for 3 years, but he still lives on everyday watching over us all. Alright dad, let's take Stevie to Disney.
March 27, 2023
March 27, 2023
My family and I mention Steve so often. So many of our favorite memories involve him!
We continue to pray God’s comfort for his family.
Karin Coutsouridis
We continue to pray God’s comfort for his family.
Karin Coutsouridis
Gallery
Sean at Jalyn’s 1000th point game.
Wilkes Barre
Poconos -great times
Nicks graduation
Thanksgiving
Family vacation
Salem
2019
2019
Recent stories
Things we learned from Steve
March 30, 2020
by Jack Almeida
My family has been blessed to have had Steve in our lives! We have learned many things from him. Steve showed Garrett “ the only way to ride the Tower of Terror” even though myself and security do not agree. We learned that Casey will consistently answer to “Garrett’s Sister” whenever Steve could not remember her name. Jalyn learned that she would always be picked by Steve to be on his team no matter what and we all learned that Tumeric stains everything, hen Steve christened our new house in Charleston with it.The real lessons we have learned from Steve are respect for others, friendship, kindness, inclusion, caring, have fun, and unconditional love. Steve was a one of a kind special person that touched the lives of many. We will truly miss him. We are praying that God will bless and comfort his family as they go through this sad time.
UCONN BASKETBALL
March 29, 2020
Steve caused to happen one of the best pictures and memories my family has. After a UCONN basketball game, our USP group was able to play on the court after the game. When all the cheerleaders and mascot was still there, Steve ordered my son "get the little guy out there, yeah" he yelled, to take a picture with the whole group. That picture remains one of the best pictures and memory of my son to this day. Just my son with the entire UConn group, mascot, etc. Amazing it was. I will never forget it. Picture is attached. That is just one story, otherwise, whenever I saw him it made me smile.
March 29, 2020
Dear Lisa & Family
Words can’t express how heartbroken we are to hear the loss of your husband and Dad. I’ll remember Steve as always having a smile on his face and, how generous he was when he made a video for the Gallagher Family when my Mom and sister-in-law Linda died. Another angel has been sent to heaven to be with his Mom. Love, Sue and Bob Skibinski
Words can’t express how heartbroken we are to hear the loss of your husband and Dad. I’ll remember Steve as always having a smile on his face and, how generous he was when he made a video for the Gallagher Family when my Mom and sister-in-law Linda died. Another angel has been sent to heaven to be with his Mom. Love, Sue and Bob Skibinski