Tributes
Stephen Gregory Cuntz, 69, of Union, KY passed away at home on Saturday, November 4, 2023. He was born on December 20, 1953, in Cincinnati, OH.
Steve grew up in Norwood, Ohio, then moved early in his life to West Chester, where he was a Lakota High School graduate, class of 1972. While at Lakota, his love for sports blossomed, as evidenced by the success he earned on the football field, eventually garnering an induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame. After high school, Steve attended Xavier University on a football scholarship, where he earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and his Master’s degree in Finance. He also became a Certified Public Accountant. Later in his life, he would come to serve on the Board of Trustees for Xavier University.
Steve was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He had a love for music, learning to sing and play the guitar. He would often be quick to strike up a tune around family gatherings or play at the company fall festival for employees. Throughout his life, Steve exercised his mind, body, and spirit daily. He was an avid reader and lifelong learner interested in history, music, and world affairs. The knowledge he gained was often shared in conversation to offer unique perspectives and a well-informed point of view. Physically, Steve enjoyed working out and looked forward to playing wallyball with his friends every Thursday night for many years. Spiritually, Steve was a devout Catholic eager to serve the community and share in the blessings of a life’s work.
His professional life brought a bounty of world travel with his wife Vicki, making great memories throughout the years. He would make it a point to visit and learn from historical places. Back at home, one could always find Steve outdoors where he loved to be, whether it was boating in the summertime or singing around a fire. He had a deep love for family, and spending time with them on the home front was a joy. Later in life, with the blessings of wonderful grandchildren, he loved cooking their favorite breakfasts and watching all their activities, considering such to be one of life’s greatest joys.
Steve was an accomplished businessman with an uncommon inner drive, instrumental in building BlueStar, the world’s leading specialty electronics distributor. He had a natural entrepreneurial spirit centered on a customer-first culture, forging a company DNA that made BlueStar a standout in the industry. As founder, President and CEO, Steve lead the company for over 30 years. During that time, the company was presented with countless industry awards.
Steve was awarded the prestigious Ernst & Young “Entrepreneur of the Year” designation and has served on the E&Y committees to evaluate future winners. He led BlueStar to numerous business awards, such as the Deloitte Cincinnati USA 100, the Cincinnati Business Courier Fast 55, and the Northern Kentucky “Emerging 30.” Steve served on the Board of the Association for Automatic Identification and Mobility (AIM) and the Executive Committee for the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA). He was Chairman of the BlueStar Board of Directors. For those who had the honor of knowing and working with Steve, he was recognized for his gifted intellect, visionary outlook, mentorship, and, above all, leadership.
Steve was a great man with a massive heart, as evidenced by his life’s work and intense love from his family, friends, and employees. Steve will be remembered for his outstanding character, a great sense of humor, and love for his family.
Stephen is preceded in death by his parents, Geraldine Chieco Ritter and Louis and Nora Cuntz; sister, Deborah Cuntz; and brother, Duke Cuntz.
Those left to carry on his great legacy are his loving wife, who he adored for 46 years, Victoria Pitzer Cuntz; daughters, Katie (Jacob) Irwin, Emily (James) Wright, and Chelsea Williams; his adoring grandchildren, J.R., Colton, Duke, Lily, Sophie, Evie; brother, John Cuntz; sisters, Terea Kinney, Kimberly Mann, and Gigi Dales; uncle, Michael Chieco; aunt, Mary Lucas; numerous brothers-in-law and sister-in-law’s , nieces, nephews, and many special friends who will miss him beyond measure.
A visitation will be held Friday, November 10, 2023, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 10272 US-42, Union, KY 41091. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the church. A private burial will take place at the convivence of the family at St. John’s Cemetery in Ft. Mitchell, KY.
In place of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in Stephen’s name to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Cincinnati, Cincinnati/Dayton Office Staff, PO Box 29, Milford, OH 45150, or donate to St. Timothy Catholic School, 10268 US-42, Union, KY 41091.
St. Timothy Church – Union, KY
10272 US 42Union, KY 41091
Phone: (859) 384-1100
St. Timothy Church – Union, KY
10272 US 42Union, KY 41091
Phone: (859) 384-1100
St. John Cemetery – Ft. Mitchell, KY
Address: 1 St. John Rd Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017Stephen G. Cuntz
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Sorry for your loss
Steve was a leader and mentor for all of us in the retail technology sector. He made time for everyone, and I’ll always cherish the one on one interactions I had the privilege of sharing. He built a great business, providing a great living for hundreds of families. My heart goes out to Vicki, their family and the rest of the Bluestar team. Steve left a positive impression on all he interacted with. God bless.
Numb…
…is what I’ve felt since I first heard of Steve’s death. Steve and I crossed paths many times in our lives and I always believed he would still be here long after I’d left. Vicki, Katie, Emily and Chelsea, over 20 years since I’ve seen you but I will always remember the depth of Steve’s love for each of you. From my first double date to Steve’s first Bengals game, time at Xavier and ultimately BlueStar we used to sit into the evenings and discuss philosophy. We didn’t often agree but we always talked. Things didn’t end the way I would have wished but then I suppose they rarely do. Ladies, I wish you the best memories of your husband and father. Steve was a good man and in the end, that’s the best we can hope for, except he was far more than good.
Brian
Friend
You were a great friend in High School and I will always remember those days,RIP my friend and my deepest sympathy to your wife and friends..
Norm Pritt
For a kind person
My gratitude to a man whom I respected, admired and who played a part in my life.
I know that God is with you and you are with Him.
My deepest condolences to his family and especially Vicky.
Condolences
Our deepest Condolences to Vickie & Family. Steve was one of my best friends, starting in elementary school! Always a smile on his face & just an all around nice guy. I think it was about 56 years ago when I first met Steve. We played church softball, basketball, football, & track all through school.
Sorry for your loss
Gary & Carol
Condolences From the AGORA Edge family
Steve Cuntz will be greatly missed at the Bluestar VARTECH Show. He delivered some very encouraging speaks that several of our employees were blessed to hear over the last several years. Not only did Bluestar loss a very valuable President but our condolences go out to his family and friends.
Thank you!
What a great person I had the chance to meet. One of the best ones. Always paying attention and with a smile in his face when talking with me. Thank you so much for the trust and the opportunity of being part of this great family that is BlueStar – the result of counting with such a great leader.
My thoughts and prayers are with Steve’s family during this difficult time. Carla Amorim
Condolences
Sending my deepest prayers and sympathy to the entire family. Even though I only met this man a couple of times, I can see what a great human being he was by his generosity and the beautiful example he was to his family.
Christine Duggins
Condolences
The first time I met Steve was in 2010 when he visited the BlueStar’s French office.
I will never forget how scared and paralyzed I was, to seat in front of the CEO of such a company.
But even if we didn’t exchange a lot together, I discovered all along these years someone very human and close to his employees.
A big thanks for trusting in BlueStar EMEA and giving me the opportunity to be part of this adventure.
My condolences to his family and co-workers.
Franck
Generous Educator
I have known Steve my entire life. He and Vicki are friends of my parents.
As a kid, Steve was always kind and funny.
I will never forget him singing and banging on pots and pans on New Years Eve, when I was a very young kid.
As an adult, I became a teacher. A few years ago some of my students from the Ignite Institute had the chance to compete in a robotics competition. It was across the country and they were short on their fundraising goals.
I suggested my students make an appointment and call Steve, explain their game, and offer to put BlueStar on the side of the robot as a sponsor if he could make a small donation towards their trip.
During the phone call he explained the importance of robotics in industry and how it was a big part the future of manufacturing and distribution.
He asked “what is the remaining balance of the goal for the trip.”
The students told him.
He replied, “ I am not going to give you that much.”
After a slight awkward pause he said, “ what I will do is DOUBLE it.” I like robots and kids that want to learn.”
The students were shocked and grateful!
( I was grateful, but not that shocked, he was always so generous.)
They asked if they could do anything in return like decals on the robot etc.
He replied, you can’t do anything for me, other than tell your mom and your dad you love them and your coaches and teachers thank you.
That competition changed those kids’ lives forever. Without his generosity, who knows if they even get to go. The extra money helped grow the program to have even more students in the following years.
Girls, you are in our thoughts and prayers for peace. I hope you find some comfort knowing Steve is resting in the arms of the Lord pain, stress and trouble free. Or maybe he is banging pots and pans and singing.
Love Adam K
Generous Educator
I have known Steve my entire life. He and Vicki are friends of my parents.
As a kid, Steve was always kind and funny.
I will never forget him singing and banging on pots and pans on New Years Eve, when I was a very young kid.
As an adult, I became a teacher. A few years ago some of my students from the Ignite Institute had the chance to compete in a robotics competition. It was across the country and they were short on their fundraising goals.
I suggested my students make an appointment and call Steve, explain their game, and offer to put BlueStar on the side of the robot as a sponsor if he could make a small donation towards their trip.
During the phone call he explained the importance of robotics in industry and how it was a big part the future of manufacturing and distribution.
He asked “what is the remaining balance of the goal for the trip.”
The students told him.
He replied, “ I am not going to give you that much.”
After a slight awkward pause he said, “ what I will do is DOUBLE it.” I like robots and kids that want to learn.”
The students were shocked and grateful!
( I was grateful, but not that shocked, he was always so generous.)
They asked if they could do anything in return like decals on the robot etc.
He replied, you can’t do anything for me, other than tell your mom and your dad you love them and your coaches and teachers thank you.
That competition changed those kids’ lives forever. Without his generosity, who knows if they even get to go. The extra money helped grow the program to have even more students in the following years.
Girls, you are in our thoughts and prayers for peace. I hope you find some comfort knowing Steve is resting in the arms of the Lord pain, stress and trouble free. Or maybe he is banging pots and pans and singing.
Love Adam K
Condolences from TSC Auto ID Technology
When TSC tried to establish the business in the US in 2002, we could not find distributors to partner with us. It was Steve who decided to carry the TSC brand. His entrepreneurial spirit had a profound impact on our year-over-year growth. If not for Steve and Blue Star, TSC would not enjoy the success we have today.
We missed Steve deeply and cherish the partnership and support of Blue Star.
Kevin Aie and the TSC Family
Rest in peace
I want to express my deepest condolences, my thoughts go out to his family.
All my gratitude to Steve for trusting Bluestar Europe.
Isabelle DUCLOS
Happy and fortunate to have worked with Steve
Sincere condolences to all of Steve’s family. I have been a casual business acquaintance of Steve’s for 12+ years as a business partner of Bluestar’s. Great guy, great leader and no doubt an excellent family man. Those on the other side will be glad to have him join their ranks. On our side – he will be greatly missed. No question that his spot in the band, in the office and at home will be missed.
I am happy and fortunate to have worked with Steve!
Dream Maker
Mr. Cutz, Dear Steve. 19th years ago my wife and me had the dream to become an entrepreneur and you with Bluestar made our dream come true. we gonna be grateful forever.
We are deeply sorry for your loss, we are gona miss you, our hearts, prayers and support are from now with your family in this moments of sadness. we wish all of them soon relief.
Respectfully
Edgar Castillero, Family and collaborators.
Smart 4 B&R
Important part of our business life for many years
Our condolences to the family, and our gratitude for the part Steve played in helping to grow and maintain our business here at Mainstreet Inc. in Texas. Rest In Peace
The Mainstreet Team.
Rest in Peace
In this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with Steve’s family. Rest in Peace
Condolence Rose Intech Germany
We are dismayed and saddened by the news of the passing of Steve Cuntz,our valued business partner, CEO of Bluestar as our valued and longtime technology distributor. We would like to take the opportunity to thank him and his Bluestar Team in Germany for all these years of great support.
Our thoughts are with his family.
Gisela and Michael Rose
Management/General Manager
www.rose-intech.de
Mr. Cuntz will always be remembered as a Great Visionary for the BlueStar Family.
As part of the BlueStar Mexico Team, I feel grateful to be part of the family that Mr. Cuntz built from the very beginning. May he rest in power and his family finds the inner strength on these difficult moments.
Condolences from the FastSensor team.
Condolences from the FastSensor family. Steve was a great human and accomplished businessman who had a kind and generous heart. We will miss his presence and leadership at BlueStar functions and in the industry at large.
An amazing man and integral leader
I met Steve several years ago at a Bluestar or an RSPA event, but never really got to know him until this year when we had the pleasure of going Bobsledding in Utah with Steve and his wife. After that experience, we had the pleasure of having conversations about the company and how it had all started, and Steve shared some leadership wisdom with me as a fellow business owner. I had the pleasure of spending time with Steve a few more times this year at various Bluestar and RSPA events, and every time he knew who I was and asked how I was doing. Steve took the time to stop and care about everyone he met. The world lost a great leader and an incredible man of God, and I’m sure an amazing father and grandfather. Steve you will be missed!
Scott McClannahan
Simple POS Solutions Inc.
Denver, CO
A great man and a great leader
Steve was one of the most approachable executives I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. He was tough, but extraordinarily kind. I respected him immensely. He will be missed.
From IVR-Uruguay
Our sincere condolences to the family and co-workers.
We will remember Steve as a kind, good-humored person and a professional who helped us grow our business.
The IVR-Applied Engineering team,
Montevideo, Uruguay
STEVE CUNTZ
Such a Huge loss to All of His Family, Friend and Colleagues. Unreplaceable. May our prayers and thoughts reach Gods ears.
Rest in Eternal Peace Seve, you will Never be Forgotten.
.
A gifted leader – admired by all…
I am truly saddened by the loss of not only a good friend, but also someone I truly admired. Steve was an inspiration to his team and a champion for his industry. He was someone who was more comfortable chatting in a chair at the beach than he was on a stage infront of thousands. He always took time to visit and chat about business and music. (But preferred to talk music!) I will miss our eclectic conversations at VARTech and RetailNOW. He will be truly missed.
Tom & Karen Bronson
