Stephen John Forte

Stephen John Forte, of Landisville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Hospice & Community Care, Mount Joy. Born in Lancaster, Pa he was the son of the late Richard and Christine Liberto Forte. Steve graduated from Lancaster Catholic High School, class of 1958 and went on to obtain his bachelor's degree from Millersville University; followed by a master's degree in education from Temple University. Steve taught seventh grade English at Conestoga Valley Middle School and eventually took the reins of the English department as Chair. He coached new teachers, shared his wisdom and constantly sought to raise the bar for the entire district. As a teacher, Steve made his classroom a safe and nurturing space; a place of acceptance, respect, and engagement. He was beloved for the connections he made with everyone; connections that continued years after his retirement. Former students reminisce fondly, and for those who knew him, there wasn't a sentence he couldn't diagram.

Steve kept himself very busy over the years. Time spent at the gym was important to him, and he always managed to squeeze a pretty intense fitness routine of weightlifting into his packed schedule. Steve was always on the move, and in addition to his teaching duties worked at Pantry Pride and for Oblender's Furniture Store for over 16 years as a valued salesman. Steve thoroughly enjoyed dancing and was the last to leave the dance floor especially when Motown was played. Whether he was in the school gym or out with friends, the dance floor always beckoned. In addition, Steve's favorite pastime was time spent with his closest companion Jim Saturno, and their friends at Rehobeth Beach, DE.

Steve had a deep love for dogs. Throughout his adult life; he always had one at his side. From Heidi to Buddy, his beloved animals were considered part of the family.

After his father passed in 1972, Steve took great pride in caring for his mother, who lived with him until her passing in the year 2000. Steve opened his heart and his pool and with Mamaw's cooking and Steve's warm hospitality, all were welcomed on any given Sunday to eat, laugh, dance and swim during the warm summer months.

Surviving are his nieces and nephews; Cynthia Forte, Christina King, Joseph husband of Dawn Forte, Richard Forte, Steven husband of Clare Daher, and a Niece-in-law, Tammy Forte. Also surviving is a sister-in-law, Patricia Forte, and cousins, Emanuel Forte, Stephano Forte and Anthony "Tony" Forte. Preceding him in death are his brothers, Joseph A. Forte and Cosimo "Gus" Forte and his wife Merla Forte, as well as a nephew, Gus E. Forte and a niece, Sharon D'Aquino.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a funeral service for Stephen at Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike Lititz PA 17543 on Friday, November 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM. There will be a viewing and time of visitation with the family from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will be in St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Cemetery. Those desiring may send memorial contributions in Stephen's memory to Hospice & Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17601. To send the family online condolences please visit, www.snyderfuneralhome.com.