Steven M. Hnatiak

Steven M. Hnatiak (aka Yak), 81, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026 surrounded by his family, after bravely fighting a long illness. Born in Eglin Field, FL to Paul and Julia (Mokrey) Hnatiak, he grew up in Parma and Marblehead, Ohio, then lived in various communties in NE Ohio his adult life.

He retired as a Police Lieutenant from the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs. Steve was a proud U. S. Air Force Veteran, serving in the Vietnam War as a Security Forces K-9 Officer. Over the years, he belonged to the Fraternal Order of Police (past chapter President), DAV (former Chaplain), American Legion, Great Lakes Search and Rescue of NE Ohio, Civil Air Patrol, as well as several other Veterans' organizations. Steve enjoyed fishing, boating, camping, hunting, traveling, photography, and above all, spending time with his family. Steve was also an avid Ham Radio Operator N8SMH (formerly KC8IVD) and a trained weather spotter. Steve's Christian faith led him to many volunteer aspirations at the church he loved.

Steve will be sadly missed by his wife of 34 years, Dorine Linnen; sons, Steven Hnatiak, Michael (Elizabeth) Hnatiak; 2 grandchildren; sister, Janet Akosi; and a very large extended family he cherished.

A celebration of life service will take place on August 22, 2026, at 1pm, preceded by a calling hour from 12-1pm, at New Horizons Christian Church, 290 Darrow Rd, Akron, Ohio. Those who wish may make memorial donations in Steve's name to SAM - Save a Mom Pregnant Dog Rescue https://saveamomrescue.com/ in East Sparta, who rescued his beloved dog, Mina aka Robyn.

To share a memory of Steve or leave a special message with his family, please visit the guest book below.