IN MEMORY OF STEPHEN FRANCIS HARRAN JR.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Stephen Francis Harran Jr. of Saratoga Springs, New York, who passed away peacefully at his home on September 8, 2026, surrounded by family and memories of a life well lived.

Stephen lived a long, full, and meaningful life. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a friend to many, and a man who gave generously of himself to his family, his community, and his country.

Stephen was born on October 3, 1933. During his nearly 93 years, he touched the lives of many through his wisdom, humor, determination, generosity, and, above all, his love for his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy; his four sons and their wives, Stephen and Patricia, John and Tiffany, Michael and Mary, and Thomas and Christina; his grandchildren, Brenna, Stephen, Carson, Tate, Shane, Alex, and Brittany; and his great-grandchildren, Adeline and Mollie.

While Stephen accomplished much throughout his professional and community life, his greatest source of pride was always his family. Even with a busy career and many responsibilities, he always made time for his wife and children. He supported everything they did—whether it was sports, Scouts, helping with paper routes, summer camping trips, or boat trips on the Long Island Sound. He was there to encourage them, teach them, and, most importantly, to share those experiences with them. Those are the memories that his family will carry with them forever.

Stephen attended Saratoga High School and later proudly served his country in the United States Army for three years. He went on to earn both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Business Management. Combining his education with his natural drive, intelligence, and determination, Stephen built a successful career in business and higher education.

He held leadership positions supporting the marketing and manufacture of advanced airborne and space products at Hazeltine Corporation and later served as Business Manager at Skidmore College. Throughout his career, Stephen was known for his leadership, his ability to solve problems, and his determination to get things done.

He also believed strongly in giving back to his community. Stephen devoted countless hours to public and community service, serving in leadership roles with the Saratoga County Republican Party, Town of Wilton Republican Party, Town of Wilton Zoning Board, Saratoga County Industrial Development Agency, Greater Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, Skidmore Federal Credit Union, National Association of College and University Business Officers, Concerned Citizens of the Saratoga Springs School District, Saratoga Hospital Volunteer and member of St. Clement’s Catholic Church.

Among the many milestones of Stephen's accomplished life, one of the most notable came in 1986, when he was appointed Special Assistant to the Under Secretary of Education in Washington, D.C. In recognition of his efforts, he was personally presented with a Privatization Award by the Secretary of Education, for work he carried out under guidelines established during the administration of President Ronald Reagan.

But those who knew Stephen best will remember him not for his titles or awards, but for the man he was. They will remember a man who was always willing to help, who took great pride in his family, and who believed in making the most of every opportunity.

For his sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, his greatest legacy will be found in the lessons he taught, the stories he told and the countless memories he created with the people he loved.

He will be deeply missed, but the love he gave and the memories he created will live on through the generations of his family.

Family and friends are invited to join together to honor Stephen's memory and celebrate the remarkable life he shared with all who knew and loved him on Friday, September 18, 2026, from 4 to 7pm at the William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home at 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12pm Saturday, September 19, 2026 in St. Clement’s Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs. Burial with military honors will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery, 150 West Avenue, Saratoga Springs.

Memorials may be made in his name to St. Clement’s Catholic Church 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs and Saratoga Hospital Volunteers, 211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs NY 12866.

Online remembrances may be made at burkefuneralhome.com.