Stephen Mafera

Stephen J. “Steve” Mafera, age 87, of Leesburg, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2026 at 1:45 PM.

Born in Everett, Massachusetts, he was the son of Guy and Catherine T. (Monahan) Mafera. Steve spent his youth in Revere and Westwood, Massachusetts, graduating from Westwood High School in 1957. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division from 1958 to 1962, achieving the rank of Sergeant.

On July 4, 1962, Steve married Sandra L. Rauschenbach in Westwood, MA. They shared nearly 49 years of marriage before her passing in 2011. In 1964, Steve moved with his wife and young family to Indiana, where he became a lifelong Hoosier, living in LaPorte, Auburn, and North Webster.

Steve graduated from Purdue University in the early 1970s and built a distinguished career as an engineer and leader. He worked as a Materials Manager and Quality Control Engineer at Flint and Walling, later serving as Director of Quality Systems at North American Van Lines, where he pioneered the “unitized moving system.” He eventually became owner and operator of Circuits, Inc. in Auburn, Indiana.

A man of energy and discipline, Steve remained athletic throughout his life. He played softball, tennis, and later became an avid sailor and pickleball player well into his 80s. He also coached Auburn Little League baseball, sharing his love of sports and teamwork with his family and community. He and Sandra were active in the North Webster community, where she helped establish the North Webster Community Center.

Steve is survived by his son, Stephen A. “Tony” (Lynn) Mafera; daughter, Stephanie F. Taylor; four granddaughters, Jessica, Natalie, Anna, and Emilia; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Field and Claudia Fitzsimmons. He was preceded in death by his wife Sandra, his parents, and several siblings.

Steve will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, engineer, coach, and friend. His life reflected hard work, love of family, and joy in living.

His final words capture his spirit best:“Love to all and have fun.”

Arrangements are entrusted to Titus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8056 East 500 North, North Webster, IN 46555. No services are scheduled at this time; additional details will be shared as they become available.