Harry Steckman, 76, of Oak Park, originally from Chester, Pennsylvania; New Jersey; and New York City; died on Aug. 15, 2022. Born on May 16, 1946, he was a dedicated piano teacher and choral director and was co-founder of one of the first non-profit music schools in Oak Park. Along with his late wife Claire, he taught multitudes of students, many of whom became professional musicians themselves.
In addition to his family and music, he loved art, travel and beaches and enjoyed Chinese food, biblical flicks, anything starring Katharine Hepburn, and concerts of all kinds.
He is survived by his daughters, Tamara Fagan and Naomi Steckman; his wife, Beth Ryza; his brother, Larry; his stepchildren, Paul and Tammy Golden; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
To honor Harry’s memory, please see a concert, take up an instrument or sing a torch song.
Arrangements were handled by Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home.
