Stephen D. “Steve” Bigger – 78 – of 2639 County Rt. 70A (Big Creek Rd.), Hornell died early Saturday morning (December 8, 2018) following a 30 year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born in Scranton, PA on August 23, 1940, he was the son of Michael & Helen (Fedor) Bigger.

Steve grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of St. Ann’s School and later graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1958).  Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Navy, serving his country aboard the USS Yorktown.  He was honorably discharged in 1961.

For 22 years, Steve served as a New York State Trooper, primarily in the Hornell, Bath & Canisteo area.  He retired in 1987.  Having a lifelong interest in government, he served the community as a member of the Steuben County Legislator from 1993 – 2002.

Steve had been a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  A true outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter & fisherman.  He not only hunted & fished locally, he would often travel throughout the United States visiting such places as Alaska (fishing), Wyoming (elk hunting) and Nebraska (pheasant hunting).  There was no place on earth than he would rather be than outdoors and enjoying all that Mother Nature had to offer.

In addition to his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Bigger who died in 1944 at the age of seven.

Surviving are his son, Stephen (Michelle) Bigger of Alpine Wyoming; his sister, Marie Diestler of Hornell; his nephew, Andrew (Billie Jean) Diestler of Alfred Station; 2 great-nieces; 1 great-nephew; several cousins.

The family of Stephen D. “Steve” Bigger will receive friends on Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.   Funeral & committal services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be inSt. Mary’s Cemetery. 

Steve’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contribution in his name be made to the Hart Comfort House of Allegany County, 141 East State St., Wellsville, NY 14895.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

All of Steve’s family are eternally grateful to Rheanna and her devoted staff of caregivers who, because of their love & devotion, allowed Steve to remain in his home for the past four years.  Thank-you from the bottom of our hearts!!!

In recognition of Steve’s service to his country as a member of the US Navy, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.