Steven John Lotycz, 72, of Fremont, Ohio, passed away on August 14, 2026. On that sad day, we lost a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He was born in Fremont, Ohio, to John “Chub” and Catherine “Kitty” (Hoffman) Lotycz. He graduated from Fremont Ross High School in 1972 and later earned his journeyman’s certification from Terra Community College in Fremont. He was a member of St. Ann’s Catholic Church and married his wife, Bonnie Lotycz, on November 7, 1975.

A hardworking man, Steve dedicated 52 years to Whirlpool, working in the Tool and Die Department. He took great pride in his work, especially retiring third on the seniority list at Whirlpool, a true testament to his dedication and commitment. He was also a mentor to many. Intelligent, meticulous, and determined, those same qualities carried over into his life outside of work. Steve was a skilled craftsman who could fix just about anything and always seemed to have the tool you needed. He was always willing to lend a hand and could often be found working alongside his brothers, tackling projects both big and small.

Never one to be idle, he was heavily involved in sports throughout his life. He was an avid runner in his younger years, played volleyball, softball, and tennis, enjoyed golf, and officiated volleyball for many years. You could often find him helping on the court, field, or in the backyard with his children. He coached volleyball, basketball, softball, baseball, and football. He made a lasting impression on the athletes he coached and always seemed to have a nickname for everyone. More than anything, Steve loved being there to support his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews at their sporting events.

Throughout his life he enjoyed many activities, including trap shooting, poker, gardening, camping, and evenings around the campfire. He loved Notre Dame football, vacationing in Aruba, and dinners out with family and friends. Steve also believed there was a good reason to keep just about everything.

Steve was also one of a kind. Whether he was wearing his coaching shorts and high socks, a bright neon outfit, a flannel shirt, or one of his favorite Hawaiian shirts, he had a style that was all his own. He rarely went anywhere without his flashlight, pocket knife, or pocket protector. You also never had to wonder what belonged to Steve; he wrote his name on just about everything he owned.

Steve will be deeply missed by his wife, Bonnie Lotycz; daughter Kelly (Michael) Gelinas and grandchildren Jake and Lane; son Matthew (Rachel) Lotycz and grandchildren Avery, Brooke, and Harper; daughter Krissy (Kyle) King and grandchildren Brayden, Leslie, and Kyler; siblings Linda (Ron) Whitcomb, Teresa Hinkle, Thomas (Bill Prentice) Lotycz, Joseph Lotycz, Robert (Lisa) Lotycz, Paul (Jennifer) Lotycz, and Lisa (Bill) Lamalie; along with many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John “Chub” and Catherine “Kitty” Lotycz; his grandson, Brody Owen King; and his brothers-in-law, Terry Hinkle and Gerry Shultz.

Steve’s absence leaves us heartbroken, and he will be deeply missed. The stories, memories, and moments we shared with him will continue to be part of our lives forever.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Ann Catholic Church, 1021 W. State Street, Fremont, Ohio, 43420. Family and close friends will have a private burial following the Mass.

A casual Celebration of Life will be held on September 2, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Ole Zim’s Wagon Shed, 1375 OH-590, Gibsonburg, OH, 43431, where family and friends are invited to come and go, share memories, food, drinks, stories, and laughter.

The family kindly requests no flowers. Your thoughts, prayers, and support are greatly appreciated.

Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Home & Crematory, Fremont, Ohio, has the honor of assisting Steve’s family through this difficult time.

To express online condolences, or to watch Steve’s Tribute Video, please visit: www.hermanfh.com.