Stephen Devald

Stephen Devald, known to family and friends as Steve, passed away on June 5, 2026, in Clifton, New Jersey, at the age of 89.

Born on August 25, 1936, in Hungary, Steve lived a life marked by courage, faith, humor, and devotion to the people and places he loved. He came to the United States in 1956, first settling in Passaic before making Clifton his home for most of his life. While still in Hungary, he was active in the 1956 Hungary Revolution. After arriving in America he served in the U.S. Army, reflecting a deep sense of duty and gratitude for his adopted country.

Steve worked for many years as a textile manager at Sanit Textiles in Paterson until his retirement in 2005. Once you met him, his goal was to see you laugh – or at least smile. Credited by his family as the originator of bad jokes and puns, he had a gift for making others feel comfortable - his quick wit and humor brought laughter to everyone he encountered.

Steve was a devoted parishioner of St. Stephen R.C. Magyar Church in Passaic, serving over the years as President of the Parish Council, an usher, a Eucharistic Minister, and a Trustee of the church. His service to his church community reflected the depth of his faith and his commitment to helping others. He was a faithful and familiar presence, and his devotion was evident in both his actions and his example.

His beloved New York Yankees won the last game he saw – for which the family is grateful. He enjoyed a daily drive through Garrett Mountain Reservation, where the deer came to recognize him. Steve was memorable, and one-of-a-kind - he had a special way of brightening a room and leaving others better for having spent time with him.

Steve was predeceased by his beloved wife, Eva Devald, née Domiczi, and by his son, Paul Devald. He was also predeceased by his two sisters, Maria Devald and Ilona Devald. Steve is survived by his daughters, Agnes Breda and her husband Paul, and Kathleen Swartzendruber and her husband Mark; his grandchildren, Tyler and Ryan Hugues; and his two granddogs, Daisy and Gigi. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory and the many ways he enriched their lives.

His journey from adversity in Hungary to making a prosperous, love-filled life in New Jersey was one of courage and hope, a testament to his character and perseverance. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew him.

A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 10:00 am at St. Stephen R.C. Magyar Church, 223 Third Street, Passaic. Interment of ashes to follow at St. Nicholas Cemetery, Lodi. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Eleventh Hour Rescue, P.O. Box 218, Rockaway, NJ 07866 or www.ehrdogs.org.  Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.  Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton is handling arrangements.

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