Stephen J. Pilger

Stephen John Pilger, age 60, of Gloversville, NY passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on October 30, 2026 at Saratoga Hospital, Saratoga Springs. He was born April 5, 1966 in Jersey City, New Jersey, he was the son of Roland and the late Joan Fazzi Pilger.

Born in Jersey City and raised in Bayonne, New Jersey, Steve later moved with his family to Metuchen, New Jersey, where he attended local public schools. Sports played a central role throughout his life; he was a talented athlete who played basketball and baseball all through high school and college. His love for the game continued for numerous years as a member of the Metuchen Adult Softball League, where the camaraderie and lifelong friendships he built meant the world to him.

Deeply connected to his community, Steve was a prior member of both the Metuchen Elks Lodge and the American Legion in Metuchen, NJ for many years.

Steve worked as an accountant for over 25 years at Johnson and Johnson in Edison, NJ, Community Health Center in Johnstown, NY and Saint Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam, NY.

Later in life, Steve moved to Gloversville, New York, with the love of his life Patty and his pride and joy, his son, Jake. Some of his most cherished times were spent at their family camp on Peck’s Lake, fishing on the water and relaxing by the campfire with loved ones.

A true sports fan through and through, Steve loved watching all types of athletics. He could always be found cheering passionately for his favorite teams: the Philadelphia Flyers, the Boston Celtics, the Cincinnati Reds, and the Dallas Cowboys. Beyond sports, Steve had a huge heart, especially when it came to animals—he was well known for taking in and bringing home as many strays as he possibly could.

Above all, Steve’s greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. A natural storyteller with a wonderful sense of humor, he loved sharing jokes and swapping stories that brought smiles to everyone around him.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Patricia Miller Pilger whom he married on July 15, 2000 and by his son Jake Miller Pilger, both of Gloversville, NY. He is also survived by his father Roland Pilger, Jr. of Metuchen, NJ; brother Gordon Pilger of Metuchen, NJ; father-in-law Kenneth Miller of Bridgewater, NJ; niece Alexa Nolan of Jackson, NJ, nephew Justin Nolan of Boundbrook, NJ and several cousins.

He was predeceased by his mother Joan Pilger.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11:00AM to 1:00PM on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger & Stewart Family Funeral Homes 51 Fremont St, Gloversville where a Funeral Service will follow at 1:00PM.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the Brennan Humane Society 437 Nine Mile Tree Road Gloversville, NY 12078.