Steven Horgan

OXFORD - Steven J. Horgan, 51, of Hillcrest Circle, died on his birthday, Thursday, March 3, 2011, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Deborah (Lukes) Horgan of Oxford; his son, Ryan Horgan of Oxford; a daughter, Aimee Horgan and her fiancé Aaron Bunn of Oxford; his parents, Francis and Gertrude (Tobin) Horgan of Auburn; two brothers, Thomas Horgan and his wife Elizabeth of San Antonio, TX, and Timothy Horgan and his wife Elizabeth of Charlton; a sister, MaryAnn Malone and her husband Robert of North Brookfield; nephews and nieces, Nick, Haley, Paige, Caitlyn, Patrick, Jon, Ben, Sarah, Maria, and Wilfredo; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is predeceased by his sister Joanne in 1965. He was born in Worcester and lived in Oxford since 1985. He graduated from Auburn High School and attended Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester. His journey began 8 years ago with his courageous battle against Melanoma cancer. As a testament to his true character, he embraced every medical option available, participating in clinical trial studies to aid in cancer research. Besides being a devoted father, husband, and competitive golfer, one of his greatest pleasures was serving the Oxford community and his devotion to baseball, which included the Oxford Little League. He began as a volunteer in 1992, and was the league president for the last 6 years. In his tenure as president, the league grew to over 400 players. He is credited with starting the district's first 4-year old T-Ball division and helped Oxford host three Little League state tournaments as well as the annual Jimmy Fund tournament. He was a big supporter of the new Challenger division, a program allowing children with special needs the opportunity to participate in various sports. His involvement culminated in the dedication of a baseball field in his name at Greenbriar Park last fall. Steven's love of sports began early, which included being captain of Auburn High School's football team, where he was co-recipient of the Lions Club Defensive Player Award on Thanksgiving Day. His wit and welcoming personality will be missed by all. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, March 7, 2011, at the First Congregational Church of Dudley, 135 Center Road, Dudley. Burial will follow at North Cemetery, Oxford. Calling hours are Sunday, March 6, 2011, from 6-9 p.m. at Paradis Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UMass Memorial Hospice, 650 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605.