At nearly 18 years old, Stephen answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy during World War II. As a Fireman Second Class, he played a vital role in the war effort, contributing to the Navy’s operations in the Pacific and beyond. Following his honorable discharge in August 1946, Stephen’s service was recognized with the World War II Victory Medal, the American Theater Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Medal, a testament to his bravery and dedication.

After the war, Stephen built a fulfilling career, dedicating 28 years to the Boston and Maine Railroad as a skilled mechanic. His hard work and expertise were a cornerstone of his professional life, but his passions extended far beyond his career.

Stephen was an avid outdoorsman who embraced the natural beauty of New England. Whether hiking, fishing, or walking over 30 miles a week, he found joy in the outdoors. A skilled hunter, Stephen’s love for the sport began at the age of 15 when he hunted his first deer—a tradition he continued every hunting season.

He was a life member of the Horse Pond Fish and Game Club, where he shared his enthusiasm for fishing, participating in numerous derbies and connecting with fellow outdoors enthusiasts.

Stephen’s life was a reflection of service, dedication, and a profound appreciation for nature. His legacy as a veteran, mechanic, and outdoorsman will forever be remembered by his family, friends, and the Nashua community.

Stephen Kolesnik Jr., a cherished member of the Nashua, NH community, passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on February 28, 1927, in Winchester, MA, Stephen was the son of Stephen Kolesnik and Ella May (Gerrior) Kolesnik.

On Tuesday, December 10th, hundreds of people gathered at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen to honor his life and service. Despite having no known living family, Stephen’s story touched the hearts of many, leading to an outpouring of support from the community.He was laid to rest with full military honors. His nurses, who had become his closest companions in his later years, initially feared that no one would attend his funeral. However, a heartfelt Facebook post by Celines Gonzalez, one of his hospice nurses, sparked an overwhelming response.  (Source:  WMUR)

More than 200 people—many of them strangers—came to pay their respects, a testament to the deep gratitude and admiration for Stephen’s service and life. “Honestly, I thought it was another service. I didn’t expect this at all,” said Becki Lynn, another of Stephen’s nurses. “In his obituary, it said he had no living family. His friends were staff at his nursing home and hospice.” (Source: WMUR)

The ceremony was a moving reminder of the bond between veterans and their communities, as well as the enduring respect for those who served their country. Stephen Kolesnik’s legacy was honored not only by his caregivers but by the many strangers who became family in his final tribute. (Source WMUR).