Steven Michael Omlor

Steven Michael Omlor passed away at home in Delmar, NY, on December 2, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family.

Steve was born to Catherine and Vincent Omlor on November 8, 1944, in Tiffin, Ohio, where he attended St. Mary’s Elementary School and graduated from Calvert High School. He was called to duty to serve his country in the Army during the Vietnam War, a time that would leave a lasting mark on his health. Upon completing his tour of duty, Steve began what would become a lifetime passion for photography. He and his wife moved to Chicago, IL, where he completed a course of study at the Ray Vogue School of Photography in Chicago. This began his career as a commercial photographer. The family decided to move back east to the Capital District where Steve continued his photography career. They bought a historic farmhouse in Schoharie, NY, and worked to renovate this for many years creating a wonderful country home to raise their two daughters. After becoming empty nesters, they decided to pursue a new adventure of becoming innkeepers and bought an old inn in Rensselaerville, NY, which needed great repair. They undertook this project together and opened up the Catalpa House Bed and Breakfast. After 15 years they chose to sell the business and moved to South Carolina to be near family and enjoy the warmth and sunshine. Never fearful of change, Cape Cod was the next adventure. They lived there until Steve’s illnesses became too much to manage on their own and moved back to the Albany area to be with family. In addition to photography, Steve had a great passion for music and had an immense CD collection. He loved fishing and enjoyed this the most with his grandchildren. Steve was an avid sports fan with the Chicago Cubs being a favorite, but nothing got in the way of watching Notre Dame football with one of his favorite sayings being “Go Irish” which he made sure all of his grandchildren knew. Steve’s biggest love of all was his family. They meant everything to him and always came first. Becoming a grandfather brought out his humor and he loved to make everyone laugh. Steve was never afraid to show his emotions and wore his heart on his sleeve.

Steve is survived by his wife of 55 years, Marlene Marra Omlor; his daughters Vanessa Griesmer (Terry) and Emily Cook (Ted); his grandchildren Nathan Mills and Cole, Sophie, and Jonah Cook; his sister, Sister Jane Francis Omlor, and brother Pete Omlor (Melitte). And we cannot forget his faithful dog Mojo who was his constant companion to the end. He leaves us with an empty place in our hearts but full of the love we have for him. 

A mass for Steve will be celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Delmar, NY, on Saturday, December 13th, at 12:00. In place of flowers, donations to the American Diabetes Foundation or St. Jude Hospital for Children are appreciated. Both organizations accept donations on their websites.