Obituary

Steven Robert Lovrak, 73, of Cypress, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, after Parkinson’s disease shaped the later years of his life with resilience and perseverance.

Steve was born on November 3, 1952, in Bellaire, Ohio, to Peter and Gene (Risler) Lovrak. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Nancy Lovrak. He is survived by his beloved wife, Deborah, with whom he shared nearly 37 happy years of marriage; his loving daughter, Claire (Dustin) Funderburg; his cherished grandchildren, Anna Wren and Elizabeth; and many other treasured family members and dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Steve grew up in Rittman, Ohio, where his curiosity about the world and appreciation for history first began to take shape. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in the Geological Sciences program from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. He continued his education at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where he received a Master of Science degree in Geology. Shortly after graduating, He began his professional career with Chevron USA, Inc., a role that took him to Lafayette, and subsequently New Orleans, Louisiana. It was there that he met his wife Debbie, and eventually joined the oil and gas exploration team at CNG Producing Company. While there, Steve met and worked with many esteemed colleagues, and forged great friendships along the way. In 1991, Steve went on to enjoy a successful career in Houston, Texas, where he eventually retired from the Oil and Gas industry in 2016.

Steve, an avid golfer, also enjoyed fishing and traveling, especially when it combined his interest in history and exploring new cultures; or when it involved watching Claire play volleyball across the country. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures as much as its adventures — particularly lingering over a good breakfast, sharing conversation around the table, and cheering passionately for Ohio State football, a lifelong loyalty that never faded. Above all, Steve will be remembered as loving, warm, and always witty.

The Lovrak family will be present to receive friends on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, Houston, TX 77079. A Rosary will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed immediately by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. A reception celebrating Steve’s life will follow at The Funderburg home, 14927 Bramblewood Drive, Houston, TX 77079.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.