SOUTHBRIDGE – Steven F. Tokarz, 64, died Thursday, April 2, 2026 at home.
He leaves 2 daughters, Staci L. Tokarz and Stephanie L. Tokarz, and his chosen daughter, Jordan E. Kinney, all of Wilmington, NC; a granddaughter, Hailee M. Tokarz, also of Wilmington, NC; his father, Louis Tokarz, Jr. of Poughkeepsie, NY; 3 brothers, Michael L. Tokarz and his wife Mary of Poughkeepsie, NY, Mark A. Tokarz and his wife Dorice of Hopewell Junction, NY, and Lawrence J. Tokarz and his wife Kathleen of Webster; his care-giver, cousin and dear friend, Michael Plouffe of Southbridge; his former wife, Donna Kinney of Wilmington, NC; nephews and nieces.
He was born on October 5, 1961 in Poughkeepsie, NY, son of the late Carol A. (Dunham) Tokarz and graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School in Wappingers, NY in 1980. He went on to earn an associate degree from Johnson and Wales Culinary School in Providence, RI.
Steven began his career as a chef at “Walt Disney World”, before moving back to the area where he worked at “The Public House”, “The Back Door Pub”, “Axe Mill Tavern”, “Southgate at Shrewsbury”, all before establishing his catering business “Pro Chef Food Services LLC” in 1999 where he worked until retirement.
Following retirement, Steven shared his love for food and charity by donating his time and knowledge to local organizations where he directed food service personnel and volunteers in charitable events. Steve loved music, cooking for others, hiking, and spending time at Webster Lake.
Graveside services will be held privately and at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Donations in his memory may be made to “Douglas Camp Meeting” via their website link “douglascampmeeting.com/caring_for_camp/donate_to_dcma1875”. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Scanlon Funeral Service, 38 East Main Street, Webster.