Stephen Earl Naternicola, affectionately known as “Coach,” peacefully passed away on March 4, 2024, following a valiant battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Tina Marie (Broll) Naternicola, whom he married in 1976. Stephen is preceded in death by his mother, Nancy Belle (Merrifield) Naternicola. Alongside his wife, he is survived by his father, Joseph Lessie Naternicola; his brother, Joseph Lessie Naternicola, Jr., of Fairmont; his two sons, Christopher Eric Naternicola (accompanied by his wife, Christy (Riffee) Naternicola) of Rivesville, and Kirk Stephen Naternicola (alongside his partner, Shannon Amundson) of Fairmont. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Nicholas Kirk Naternicola and Cash Anthony Naternicola, Bryson Jordon Tyler, Brandon Ferguson, Ryan Amundson, and Austin Amundson.
A graduate of Fairmont Senior High School, Stephen was drafted to the Pittsburgh Pirates following his graduation. However, he opted to pursue higher education and attended South Georgia for a year before returning home due to a back injury. He later earned his degree in Social Studies from Fairmont State University. Over the course of his diverse career, Stephen held various roles, including working in the coal mines at Federal 2, substitute teaching, and owning businesses such as Half Time Hot Dogs and Mazza’s Home Plate.
However, his true passion lay in coaching. He dedicated himself to coaching Little League, Miller Basketball, and Miller Football before finding his true calling as the Head Baseball Coach at Fairmont Senior High School, where he proudly served for 25 years (1989-2014). During his tenure at FSHS, Stephen amassed an impressive record, including 518 career wins, led 13 state qualifying teams, and achieved seven state runner-up titles. Beyond his professional pursuits, Stephen found joy in collecting baseball cards, sharing laughs with friends, orchestrating pranks, and brightening the lives of those around him with his infectious smile.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral services. Instead, a celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at The Fairmont Field Club (MJ’s on the Fairway), located at 1709 Country Club Road, Fairmont, from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday, March 10.
Condolences:
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