After college, Stephen returned home to join his father's business, S.A. Comunale where he was being groomed as successor. What was most remarkable wasn't just that he was learning, it was how quickly he mastered everything of the complex organization. From estimating to job site management to leading people, he earned the deep respect of seasoned staff and, most meaningfully, his father.

At just 26 years old, what seemed like stress-related stomach pain was revealed to be Adenocarcinoma of the stomach, stage 4B. The diagnosis stunned his doctors and shook his world but Stephen met it the way he met everything: with optimism, quiet strength, intelligence, and a “Can Do Attitude” that would define his entire journey.

From the moment treatment began, Stephen was surrounded every day by support, family, lifelong friends, and Julie, the love of his life. But the real story was always Stephen. He never complained. Not once. When asked about pain, he was clear: there was a big difference between pain and discomfort, and he was in control. Visits to Massachusetts General helped Stephen come to terms with his terminal diagnosis. But he chose to keep on living.

He continued going to work to the quiet amazement of his employees and family. When the trips to the office eventually became too difficult, he found other ways to stay connected to the things and people he loved, reaching out to old friends from the horse world and his pool circle, and spending evenings in the den watching movies and Law and Order marathons with family, friends, and the dog by his side. He knew that a certain type of pickle, virgin Bloody Mary, or a smoothie would make him feel better, and he was usually right.

In his final weeks, he traveled to Kentucky with his brother and sister to watch pool tournaments, coming home with new cues, and happily explaining the subtle uniqueness of each one. A miniature pool table sat in his den so he could stroke a few shots when he felt up to it. He rarely missed.

When Stephen's body finally gave out, during what was supposed to be just another round of chemotherapy, no less than 30 loved ones filled his hospital room. They broke every hospital rule, too many people, cell phones, cars left by the front doors. The hospital staff understood as they could see exactly who this young man was and how deeply he was loved. Julie never left his side, and her final words to him were: "Stephen, I am so sorry you had to go through this. I love you so much." When he passed in 2006, more than 500 people came to say goodbye, a testament to the profound mark he had left on everyone he met.

It was Stephen who never complained. It was Stephen who touched every person who crossed his path. It was Stephen who faced the unthinkable with grace, humor, and an unshakeable belief that life was worth living fully, even right up to the end.

That spirit is why the Comunale Cancer Foundation exists. If Stephen could take on what he was challenged with, with that unmistakable “Can Do Attitude”, then we can do this, raise the funds, ease the burden, and remind every family in the middle of their own fight that they are not alone.

Stephen showed us how. The rest is up to us

 Jane's philanthropic spirit was woven throughout her life, even before Stephen’s passing. She gave generously of her time and home through her involvement with the Akron Children's Hospital Women's Board, the Akron Garden Club, the Ohio Ballet, and the Junior League. But her philanthropy found its greatest expression in co-founding the Comunale Cancer Foundation, channeling her deep love for Stephen into something that would help thousands of families facing their own cancer battles.

For years, Jane was the organizational force behind The Event, the Comunale Cancer Foundation’s signature bi-annual fundraiser, drawing more than 700 guests for a memorable evening. Her selfless commitment never wavered. An avid boater, world traveler, and devoted dog lover, Jane was a loving wife of 38 years, a dedicated mother, and a dear friend to many.

A talented and successful jewelry designer, Amy handcrafted pieces that were sold across the country, each one a small reflection of the beauty and care she brought to everything she did.

But Amy's greatest joy was her two daughters, Julia and Emma. She was a devoted mother in every sense, ensuring their lives were rich with education, laughter, friendship, music, dance, reading, and love. Her beauty, spirit, and love of life live on in them forever.

Amy passed away from cancer in early 2007, less than one year after Stephen. Her warm smile, kindness, and compassion were not just traits, they were the way she moved through the world, and the reason she is so deeply missed and so fondly remembered.