Obituary

Steinly, Aaron Tate, 52, of Johnstown, it is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Aaron Tate Steinly, who left this world on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024. Born on Nov. 30, 1972, Aaron passed away just a few short hours after his 52nd birthday. Aaron was preceded in death by some of the most special people in his life: his beloved grandparents, Dorothy and Oscar Steinly, who played a formative role in his childhood; his father-in-law, Joseph Arcuri Jr., who was like a father to him; and his older brother, Dwight “De” Steinly. Their memories brought Aaron great comfort, and we find solace in knowing they were waiting to welcome him home.

Aaron is survived by his wife of 26 years, Kristen (Arcuri). Aaron and Kristen shared a love story that began on February 10, 1994, when Aaron introduced himself and boldly declared she was the girl he would marry. From that moment, they built a beautiful life together, filled with love and laughter over almost 31 unforgettable years. Their journey together had many cherished memories of college days, raising their beloved children, weathering life’s storms, and celebrating its triumphs. Family vacations, backyard Steinly Cup games, camping trips to the Steinly cabin, bike rides, concerts, and so many shared adventures brought them endless joy. Just before Aaron’s diagnosis, they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with a dream trip, driving Highway 1 from Los Angeles to San Francisco in a Mustang convertible—a reflection of the adventurous spirit that Aaron brought to their life. They were eagerly planning the next chapter of their lives when Aaron was diagnosed with glioblastoma, cutting their story far too short. Yet, in the face of this challenge, Aaron and Kristen faced it with courage, fighting with everything they had. Even as they traveled back and forth to Boston for treatments, Aaron never wavered in his strength or optimism and his bravery inspired everyone around him.

Though Aaron’s life was full of remarkable accomplishments, none meant more to him than his children, Laurel and Landon. His love for them was endless, and he took immense pride in all they achieved. Aaron never missed a single ballet performance of Laurel’s, that spanned from age 3 through college as an accomplished ballet major at Butler University and her career as a professional dancer. His heart was full knowing she had married her high school sweetheart, Mac Crans, the kind of man every father dreams his daughter will find. In Aaron’s final months, Laurel moved home to help care for him—a selfless act of love that meant the world to him.

Aaron also treasured the time he spent with his son, Landon, especially on the ball field. Those moments were among the happiest of his life, but he was even more proud of Landon’s unwavering drive to become an optometrist. Watching Landon work toward this goal filled Aaron with pride, and just before his passing, he was overjoyed to see Landon accepted into the Pennsylvania School of Optometry with a Provost Scholarship. Knowing Landon’s bright future was secure, brought him profound peace. Aaron also cherished Landon’s sweet girlfriend, Katherine Horner, who became a special part of their family.

He also leaves behind a host of extended family and friends who enriched his life: his cherished uncles and aunts Larry and Stephanie Steinly, Wayne and Marcy Steinly. His brother-in-law Craig Arcuri, with whom Aaron shared unforgettable moments, like fulfilling a dream at the Dodger Fantasy Camp just this past May. Their team won the championship with Aaron playing second base while batting brain cancer. It was a moment his family will cherish forever. He spent many hours laughing with brother-in-law, Joe Arcuri, while gutting and remodeling their beautiful family home or working on quads and motorcycles in the garage. His close relationship with his niece, Lindsay Arcuri, and his nephew, Jared Arcuri, was marked by laughter and “Uncle Aaron shenanigans.” He enjoyed watching nephew Joey Arcuri and wife Rachelle (Jones) as new parents. Aaron was another son to his mother-in-law, Connie Arcuri, and spent much time with her over the years. Aaron is also survived by his parents Butch and Mary Ann Steinly, brother Eric Steinly, and his brother De’s wife Joy and children, Tori, Noah, and Jake. He had fond memories of Steinly family beach trips to OCNJ.

Aaron cherished friendships deeply, from his lifelong bonds with fraternity brothers of Phi Sigma Kappa at IUP to the “Sweenlys” family adventures with Jeana and Chris Sweeney. Their special friend group, including Tonette and Keith Moors, spent many hours laughing on birthday trips, family parties, and nights out dancing. Aaron felt blessed to have friends like Chris and Keith. He enjoyed endless laughs with close friends like Scott Wilson, on and off the racquetball court, John Kalp on many work adventures, Kristi Lengyel who always opened her generous heart and home to the Steinlys, and childhood companions, Mark Lohr and Roger Werner who made it their mission to keep his spirits high during his battle with brain cancer.

Aaron was a man of many passions. He loved coaching baseball and started sharing this love at Franklin Regional in 1999. He continued his coaching career with his son for many years starting at West Suburban Little League, where he played a role in starting the Challenger Division for children with disabilities, and continued coaching him through Pony baseball. Along the way, Aaron and Landon won several championships together. From founding the Dirtbag Travel Baseball team with close friend Rich Civis, to private batting lessons in his backyard batting cage, Aaron instilled life lessons in countless players, especially his son Landon and his impact as a mentor extended far beyond the field. He still considered so many of them his “baseball family”. When not coaching baseball, Aaron could often be found in his garage listening to music and working on one of his many Jeeps or motorcycles that he took great pride in buying and selling.

A gifted educator, Aaron served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, earning accolades like Educator of the Year from St. Francis University. Recently, while battling glioblastoma, Aaron’s determination saw him complete his real estate exams, a testament to his remarkable drive. He faced life’s challenges, including his glioblastoma diagnosis, with courage, optimism, and an unmatched determination to live fully.

Aaron’s love for life was contagious. Whether he was planning epic trips, restoring vehicles, or gathering family and friends for backyard parties, he infused every moment with joy and excitement. His family fondly called it “being extra,” but it was, in truth, his unique sparkle—an energy that made the world brighter for everyone around him.

Aaron passed peacefully at home, with Kristen, Laurel, Landon, Mac, and his beloved dogs, Daisy and Scout, by his side. We take comfort in the thought that he has been reunited with his first lap dog and best girl, Joesie, and the cherished family members who have gone before him. As per Aaron’s request, the family will be holding a private celebration of life in Aaron’s honor.

Aaron’s family encourages you to visit forevermissed.com to share your condolences, favorite memories and photos of Aaron. Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., “Exclusive Provider of Veteran and Family Memorial Care.” Condolences may be made at HindmanFuneralHomes.com