Stephen G. DeSousa

Stephen "Steve" G. DeSousa, 65, of Church Street, Catasauqua, passed peacefully Sunday 24, 2026, in his home. He was the beloved husband of Lisa A. (Barlip) DeSousa since November 9, 1990. Born in Palmerton, he was a son of the late John "Jack" and Ethel (Bohunicky) DeSousa.

Steve was the youngest of 5 children and starting at an early age he learned to play music with his family. His love for music and performing continued to be a lifelong passion. He was a talented trombone, and bass guitar player, often playing with his father, Jack, and siblings, and in many local bands including: Palmerton Community Band; Allentown Marine Band; Perseverance Jazz Band; The Vultures; Mustang Sally; GABB; Bootleg Express; Country Rhythm Band; The Dixieland 5; and most recently The Pennsylvania Villagers.

Steve was an extremely hard working man all his life, and recently retired in December of 2025. He was loved by all who met him for his kindness, humor, and love. He always put others before himself, and helped everyone he could. Steve loved to tell stories about his parents and his childhood as well and always making everyone laugh.

Survivors: wife, Lisa. daughters, Chelsea R. Rider of Palmerton, Alexia M. (DeSousa) and husband Keith Kratzer of S. Whitehall Twp. 3 grandchildren, Benjamin, Aubree, Cillian. sisters, Joann Kercsmar of Palmerton, Mary wife of Jeff Strohl of Williamsport, Ann wife of Thomas Neubauer of Bear, DE. brother, John and wife Trish DeSousa of Palmerton. numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his brother in law, Joey N. Kercsmar in February of 2025.

Services: 4:00PM Friday, Campton Funeral Home, 525 Delaware Avenue, Palmerton, PA 18071. Call, 3-4:00PM Friday in funeral home. Private Interment, Sacred Heart New Cemetery, Stoney Ridge Road, Palmerton. Online Condolences: www.schislerfuneralhomes.com

Contributions: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Palmerton Community Band, 60 Sei Pike Lane, Lehighton, PA 18235.