(DePaul University/Jamie Moncrief)
It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of Stephen V. Halaska, father of the Office of Academic Advising Support's Stephanie Halaska. He died on Oct. 22 at the age of 65 surrounded by his family.
Halaska is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 23 years Mary Pat (née Conley); daughters Stephanie (Abel Nunez), Elise Stalker (Adam), and Morgan Halaska (Aaron Shaffer); and grandson Clark Stephen Stalker.
Halaska is further survived by his mother, Virginia Halaska, and siblings Claudia, Howard (Phyllis), Jennifer Foti (David), David (Helen), Michelle Montezon-Halaska (Greg), Dan (Mary), Andy (Mary), and Maria (Gene). He leaves behind the extended Conley family, and 10 nieces and nephews: Nicole Hagen (Ben), Jessica, Monica Warren (Michael), Vince (Maureen), Hans (Faith), Felicia Toy (Charlie), Anna Hendricks (Chad), Phillip Foti, Zak, and John. He is preceded in death by his father, George Halaska, and daughter Kaitlin Halaska.
Halaska grew up in Wauwatosa, Wisc., and spent his summers on Pewaukee Lake. Sailing and being on the water brought him so much joy. He was a lifelong member of Pewaukee Yacht Club and served on the Board of Directors for six years. He spent countless hours sailing, judging races, and organizing events. Halaska was part of multiple championship sailing crews and awarded judge of the year at the end of the 2020 season.
Halaska was devoted to his wife, daughters, family and friends. He happily gave his attention and kindness to all who knew him. He cherished his V-57 Fast Forward sailing family of 22 years, including brothers Howard and David and dear friends Brian and Dianne Henke, Jim and Deb Glueck, Glen and Naomi Ackley, Geoff Ackley, Bob Stoltz, Mark and Amy Schaubel, Mark and Terri Isabell, Craig and Michelle Heinze, and Ethan Heinze.
Halaska will be remembered for his weird sense of humor, ability to find a good deal, love of the Fourth of July, and preference for Johnnie Walker (and only Johnnie Walker). He will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 1-5 p.m. at the Pewaukee Yacht Club, with a service at 2 p.m. May he rest in peace.