Stephen D. Bentz

Stephen D. “Steve” Bentz, a lifelong resident of Plum, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the age of 83.

Steve was the beloved husband of Laurette (Ritzel) Bentz, with whom he shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. He was a devoted and cherished father to David (Sarah) Bentz, Christopher (Jaime) Bentz, Timothy Bentz, Joseph (Marianna) Bentz, Faith (Jeff) Balmert, Amy (Jesse) Harrison, and Anthony Bentz. He was also preceded in death by infant children, Mark and Mary Bentz.

Steve was a treasured grandfather to Nathan, Emily, Aaron, Miah, Andrew, Morgan, Hayden, and Samuel, each of whom brought him great pride and joy.

He was the brother of Verna (Martin) Fries and was preceded in death by his infant sister, Julia Frances Bentz.

Steve was a 1960 graduate of Plum High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Penn State University in 1964. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army and later in the Army Reserves.

He spent his professional career at the Westinghouse Nuclear Center in Monroeville, where he advanced to the position of Senior Accountant and retired after many years of dedicated service.

A man of faith and service, Steve was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served as an usher at Our Lady of Joy Church for many years. 

One of his most cherished roles was coaching youth bowling, including his own children, at the former Holiday Lanes in Plum. In his leisure time, he found great joy and peace fishing at Northmoreland Park.

Steve was especially proud to be a loyal and steadfast fan of Penn State Football.

All are welcome on Wednesday from 3-6pm at Patrick T. Lanigan Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., Turtle Creek / Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave., Turtle Creek, PA 15145, (412) 823-9350.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Our Lady of Joy Church (Holy Family Parish) on Thursday at 11 a.m.

Steve will be laid to rest with Military Honors in Good Shepherd Cemetery.