Steve Kardos was a husband, father, grandfather, uncle, musician, athlete, sculptor, artist, gun maker, fisherman and friend who passed away at home on July 22, 2014. Steve was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on June 27, 1944, and raised in Cleveland, Ohio.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lucille Crouch Kardos; paternal grandparents, Steven and Janet Kardos; maternal grandparents, Joseph and Katheryn Crouch; and maternal uncle, Joseph B. Crouch.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 47 years, Meleta Johnson Kardos; sons, Steven Tucker Kardos of Elizabethton and Martin Dennis Kardos and wife Alison Dimond and their children Maxwell and Miles Kardos of Missoula, Mont.; and cousins, Lorna Crouch, James and wife Margaret Crouch, and Mark and wife Rochelle Crouch.
Steve graduated from Shaker Heights High School in 1962 where he excelled both academically and athletically. He was an All American Track Star in the 100 meter high hurdles. He attended Ohio State University as a track and field athlete and played football for Woody Hayes briefly. He graduated from Milligan College, in 1969, and had since resided in East Tennessee. His pole vault record at Milligan College stood for many years.
Steve was an accomplished athlete, musician, craftsman and artist. His hand-crafted Kentucky flintlock rifles are prized possessions of gun collectors across the country. His home is filled with evidence of his skills as a sculptor and wood worker. He had a passion for fly fishing with his son in Montana’s streams.
Steve taught mathematics at Roan Mountain High School for several years then dedicated several years to the making of Kentucky flintlock rifles. He began working for the City of Johnson City in 1985 as Director of Freedom Hall Civic Center, then as Director of Facilities for the City. His last project was arranging to clear the way for Founder’s Park in Johnson City.
Steve will be remembered by his family, friends and co-workers as a positive person who always tried to make the day better for those around him. His life experiences and many talents made him an interesting man. He will be missed by all.
The family will receive friends at home on Saturday, July 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. A private family service is planned. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to your local United Way in Steve’s name. Online condolences may be submitted to www.CremationSocietyTN.com