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Steven D. "Big Steve" Reed

May 6, 1950

June 18, 2022

Steven D. Reed, on June 18, 2022, age 72, of Carnegie, passed away after a courageous battle with Cancer. Son of the late Robert Reed Jr. and Hazel Sumney. Upon graduation from Carnegie High School, he served in the U.S Coast Guard, and made a career with the U.S. Postal Service. Anyone who knew Steve understood his passion for his beloved San Francisco Giants, his Harley, and his long walks through the streets of Carnegie with his cherished dog, Shadow. Steve had an extreme passion for sports which included time coaching the Carlynton women’s basketball and softball teams, Sto-Rox women’s softball, and finally Robert Morris College softball. In 2017, Steve was bestowed with one of his proudest and favorite accomplishment when he got the call to inform him that the players and coaching staff of the "great" 1994 Robert Morris softball team would be inducted into the Robert Morris University’s Hall of Fame.

Steve’s biggest point of pride in life was his wife, Denise, and their two children together, Brenna and Corey. With his daughter Brenna he wore his “DAD” hat and his “coaching” hat with unmatched dedication. He coached his daughter Brenna from a young age, on a bucket catching numerous softballs while she perfected the craft of pitching. While many hit the glove, some would find his shins, but he was never deterred. As she grew up, Steve traveled the world with her to every “travel” tournament that was needed. He would work long days for the Postal Service, come home, and they would hop right back into the car. Steve never complained, and always made sure Brenna had every opportunity to live out her dream. His message was always to work hard in life, and you would be rewarded, which came to fruition when Brenna lived out her dream as a Robert Morris Student Athlete. Steve was sure to always keep his daughter humble and grounded, but secretly would brag to others about her accomplishments. The two of them were incredibly competitive. Later in life they kept their apple watches linked so they could compete every day to see who could finish out the day with the most steps.

While Steve was traveling with Robert Morris softball, he did not do it alone, with his son, Corey, by his side no matter how short or how long the trip was. Steve would allow Corey to be the “traveling mascot”, but also brought him to practices where they honed Corey's baseball skills. When Steve was not coaching softball, his focus was directly on Corey and building him into a stronger ball player. Corey was also Steve's dependable walking partner, along with Shadow. It was very common to see the three of them walking through the streets of Carnegie. Most importantly, Steve taught Corey the basics of life, from how to change a tire to changing oil, to everyday adult life. Steve was always a phone call away for Corey and his wife Jessica and would give the shirt off his back without hesitation. Steve prided himself on being a father, and taught Corey one of the most valuable lessons in life, how to always be a go-getter and never settle for less.

Two other very important people in Steve’s life were his brother Scott and his son- in- law Brian. The two of them were there every step of the way with him, which allowed the family to honor Steve’s wishes in the end to be in his own home. A part of Steve’s personality, and his motto was to "never give up," and even a cancer diagnosis could not stifle that fire. Big Steve adamantly told his family that he would beat this nasty disease. The nurses would constantly tell the family how strong he was and how strong his heart was. He was a fighter throughout his entire life so it was only fitting that he fought until the very end.

Steve also had a passion for his beloved San Francisco Giants, and made everyone aware of his hatred for the Pittsburgh Pirates, but recently the family did discover that he was secretly recording all of the Pirates baseball games.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Denise “Talotta” Reed, of Carnegie, his brother Scott Reed of Ingram, his daughter Brenna “Reed” Grogan (Brian) of Clinton and his son Corey Reed (Jessica) of Moon Township. Steve had one “bonus” grandchild, Spencer Grogan, who he adored. Steve is survived by many brother in laws, sister in laws, nieces and nephews. Steve is also survived by many close friends and neighbors who were with him throughout his entire journey. The family would like to thank all of the healthcare workers through this journey and especially Allegheny General Hospice who were nothing short of spectacular.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the SZAFRANSKI-EBERLEIN FUNERAL HOME, INC. Per Steve's wishes, there will be no public visitation. A private family burial will be held with full military honors at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

www.szafranski-eberleinfuneralhome.com (412)276-1107

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