On February 10, 2024, the FDNY lost another beloved member, Stephen Anthony Asaro, due to illnesses related to his courageous service in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on March 21, 1964, Stephen joined the FDNY in 1996 and began his career in Engine Company 318 in Coney Island, Brooklyn. In 2004, he was promoted to lieutenant and worked in Battalion 4 in Lower Manhattan until his retirement in 2007. In addition to his distinguished service in the FDNY, he was also a master plumber, admired by all his customers.

After his retirement, he moved to Middletown, New Jersey, where he lived with his loving wife and rescue dogs. Stephen was an avid fisherman who loved spending time on his boat with family and friends. He enjoyed his early morning walks by the water and camaraderie with fellow fishermen. Stephen’s great sense of humor and his calm, reasonable approach made him a source of comfort and guidance. He consistently went out of his way to help others, and his kind spirit endeared him to everyone he met.

Stephen was very proud of his son, Christian. He was especially proud that Christian became a NYC firefighter following in his footsteps. Thankfully, Stephen got to meet and spend time with his beautiful grandson, Anthony, whom he loved very much.

Stephen took great interest in all his nieces and nephews. You would always find him attending their sports and school events. Everyone always knew when “Uncle Steve” was in the stands because you could always hear his loud voice cheering on the kids. They all loved their Uncle Steve and miss him very much.

Stephen was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who was kind and generous and lived life fully. He is deeply missed every day by his wife, family, and all those who knew him.