Stephen Michael Kulawiak

November 26, 1980 - April 25, 2026

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Obituaries

Stephen Michael Kulawiak

The Funeral will be livestreamed and can be accessed by clicking this link: Stephen Michael Kulawiak

It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of Stephen Michael Kulawiak, 45, of Raleigh, NC on April 25, 2026, at UNC Rex Hospital after a short illness. He was born in Denville, NJ on November 26, 1980, son of John and Patricia Kulawiak.

Steve grew up in Stanhope, NJ and enjoyed playing baseball, football, basketball, and hockey with his brothers and friends. He and his family also enjoyed watching professional wrestling and traveling to the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, NJ to watch the matches live. Steve attended and graduated from Lenape Valley Regional High School in Stanhope, NJ. Two days after his graduation, Steve enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and went to boot camp in Parris Island, SC. While in the Alternate Route program with the Marines, Steve attended Norwich University in Vermont and graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. He later earned his Master of Arts degree in Transportation and Logistics Management from American Military University.

Steve proudly served in the Marines until his retirement as a Captain in 2013. He served as part of Operation Rapid Guardian in Kosovo, Operation Enduring Freedom in Kuwait and Iraq, and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. After retiring from the Marines, Steve had a career as a Senior Director of Operations most recently with Thermo Fisher Scientific in Raleigh, NC.

As proud as Steve was to be a Marine, nothing brought him more happiness than being a father to his three children, Alexis (19), Addison (16), and Nicklaus (14). Steve enjoyed coaching and playing softball with Alexis, attending Addison’s dance recitals and competitions, and golfing and playing video games with Nicklaus. Whether sharing stories or reflecting on the past, he loved nothing more than long talks with his children.

In addition to being a father, Steve was passionate about golf. He enjoyed his annual Hackers golf trip with his friends, even bringing home the prestigious Jim Beam Cup twice. Steve also loved Notre Dame football, the NY Giants, and the NY Mets.

Steve is survived by his parents, John and Patricia (Peach), his brothers Edwin and Robert, his daughters Alexis and Addison, and his son, Nicklaus. He is also survived by his nephew, Elliot, many loving cousins, and friends.

Visitation will be held from 5 – 8 pm on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615. A funeral service will take place at 10 am on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Renaissance Funeral Home with burial services to follow at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27612.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Steve to the Kulawiak Family Trust, c/o Ed Kulawiak, 50 Scenic Court, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, which benefits his children’s education, healthcare, and well-being and/or the Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots, Marine Toys for Tots.

Services

8 May

Visitation

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Renaissance Funeral Home 7615 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »
Obituaries
9 May

Funeral Service

10:00 AM

Renaissance Funeral Home 7615 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Get Directions »
Obituaries
by Obituary Assistant

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Tributes

  • 5 TREES

    Ro Peach planted 5 trees in memory of Stephen Michael Kulawiak . - May 08, 2026

    Plant trees for Stephen Michael Kulawiak

  • 10 TREES

    Michele Simon planted 10 trees in memory of Stephen Michael Kulawiak . - May 07, 2026

Condolences

  • Obituaries

    May 11, 2026

    He was a large part of helping mold me into the person I am today. His leadership, caring, and patience is unmatched. Norwich wouldn't have been the same if not for him. You will be missed but never forgotten.

  • Obituaries

    May 09, 2026

    Our deepest condolences to the Kulawiak family. Steve you were a loyal, respected friend. We shared life long memories during our time in the Marines. I will cherish the time I had with you here on earth and look forward to seeing you again. Rest in peace brother Semper Fi. The Johnson Family

  • Obituaries

    May 07, 2026

    Steve, my brother, my friend, my golf guru. You're leaving an everlasting impact on all those who were lucky enough to have been a part of your life. Words cannot begin to shed light on the happiness and joy you brought to everyone. From your hardline work ethic to your volatile golf game, you brought passion and a sense of drive to every shot you've taken. As rare as they were, I will miss our chats and catching up on who we think will win the Masters that year. Allowing my family to feel like a part of yours, as well as cursing your child by naming her after my wife, are just a few of the proudest things you've done my family and I. They fall short in comparison to the trust bestowed on Marlis and I being named God parents to your children. To My brother, My Friend, and My Golf Guru You will be missed

  • Obituaries

    May 07, 2026

    I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Stephen. He was an amazing leader and colleague. I know there are no words that can comfort you at this time, but my thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Crystal Perry (co-worker, PPD)

  • May 07, 2026

    We all lost a fine Norwich man who served his country, community and his family. He left us way too early in his young life. We will close ranks but never forget him. May he Rest in Peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and his Norwich buddies. NORWICH FOREVER!! W/r RADM Rich Schneider

  • Obituaries

    May 07, 2026

    Stephen was someone who always looked out for everyone else. I first met Stephen when he joined PPD as an Associate Director within Medical Communications. From the beginning, he brought a vision of creating stronger support for the veterans within our company. His passion and leadership helped establish the Veterans and Military Families Business Resource Group—uniting those who have served, their families, and allies, and building a community rooted in support, development, and shared purpose. What stood out most about Stephen was how intentional he was with people. Whenever he was in the office, he would set his work aside to walk around and check in with everyone. He made time—real time—for each of us. One of my favorite memories is when he walked into the locked room on the 4th floor—thanks to his special access—and found me working alone. He smiled and said, "I know you have a lot to do, Julia, but let's stop for a minute and talk... tell me how you are doing." That was Stephen. No matter how busy things were, he made sure we felt seen and supported. Though he was often quiet, his smile and laughter filled our offices and hallways. He showed up—to every engagement, every event, every person—with genuine care and encouragement. I will miss his smile, his laughter, and most of all, his friendship. My heart goes out to the Kulawiak family and our entire PPD community. Stephen has earned his wings and is now soaring high.

  • May 07, 2026

    I first met Steve during our Junior year at Norwich, when we became roommates for a semester in Goodyear Hall. Even then, his character was unmistakable. He was the rare kind of man who balanced physical strength with a patient, caring heart. ​Steve was a natural leader, the kind people followed because they respected him, not because he demanded it. Seeing the man he was back then, it's no surprise at all that he became such a devoted and loving father. Steve, thank you for your patience and for putting up with my late hours back in our roommate days. You were an exceptional leader and a truly good man. You will be deeply missed.

  • Obituaries

    May 06, 2026

    John and Patti, our deepest condolences to the entire Kulawiak family on the untimely passing of your son Stephen. We are so sorry for your loss, and you are in our prayers at this most difficult time.

  • May 06, 2026

    I'll never forget meeting Steve as a Rook, he was a member of our Delta Company cadre and as the only one with a deployment under his belt at the time he made the experience real. His military demeanor was balanced out by the way he would take the time to answer questions with honesty and sincerity. Thank you Stephen, rest easy. Love and condolences to you Meg. -John Jay Mouligne NU '06

  • May 06, 2026

    To Stephen's family and friends, I am very sorry for your loss may your find peace in the love and memories you shared. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Liz Cassidy, co-worker PPD

  • Obituaries

    May 03, 2026

    To the Kulawiak Kids: so sorry to hear about your dad. He loved you so much, and that love will always be with you. We shared great memories when I (Melissa) used to take you all to School when you were younger. Love you always

  • Obituaries

    May 02, 2026

    Alexis, i am so sorry. To hear about your Dad. My prayers. Of comfort are for you and your family.I love you!!!! Meme Sheila Smith North Augusta, SC.

  • May 01, 2026

    Dear John,Pat,Ed,Bob and family, Sending my deepest condolences to all of you. I just heard the terrible news and I am so very sorry for your loss. I am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Sincerely, Lisa Calvert

  • April 30, 2026

    Our deep condolences and empathy to the Kulawiak family. We shared many wonderful memories with Stephen, Megan, and Alexis on Camp Pendleton, and most recently as Asaiah had the joy of reconnecting with them and meeting Addison and Nicklaus. I'm so blessed to have just spoken with Stephen -- he seemed so happy and shared the joy of his family with me. Lots of love, Emily and Asaiah McKinley

  • April 30, 2026

    Steve the footprints you have left here can never be filled, and your contagious smile and laugh will never be matched. From Saint Michaels, to Lenape and beyond-I am honored to have been a part of your life (and to have had some amazing parties on our parents behalf). You will be missed forever. Watch over your brothers...

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