Stephen Pollihan passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, after a long battle with lewy body dementia. He faced this difficult disease with the same quiet strength that defined his entire life. He leaves a legacy of service and sacrifice to his family, friends, and community.
Stephen was born in February 1950 to Otto and Mary Pollihan in St. Louis, Missouri. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Saint Louis University and a master’s degree from Webster University. He spent his entire career as a police officer serving and protecting the citizens of St. Louis. After graduating from the police academy in 1972, he began his career as a patrolman. Over the next 36 years, he worked his way through the ranks, retiring in 2009 as Assistant Chief of Police. During his time on the force, he co-authored the book “In the Line of Duty” as a tribute to the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Stephen is survived by his beloved wife of 19 years, Kathryn Rosteck; his children, Stephen Pollihan, John Pollihan (wife Lynn), and Christie Pollihan; and his grandchildren, Sean, Madison, Maggie, and Brennan. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Mary DeBourg, Meghan Fitch (husband Brandon), Rebecca Sherwood (husband Craig), and nine step-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Mary Pollihan; his brother and sister-in-law, Thomas and Margaret Pollihan; and his sister and brother-in-law, Geraldine and Eugene Gamache.
A funeral mass will be held at the Basilica of St. Louis (Old Cathedral) on March 24th at 10:00 A.M. There will also be a short visitation at the church starting at 9:00 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in Stephen’s honor to The Backstoppers.
We were saddened to learn of Steve’s passing. He was one of the good ones. We had so many good experiences growing up in North St. Louis. Steve was a good friend during our early years. We lost touch after we moved away from St. Louis, but Steve’s progression through the St. Louis Police Dept. was gratifying and did not surprise us. Dedication and honesty were hallmarks of his character.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve’s family during this time of sadness.
So sorry , he was a tremendous man and Leader.
He was friend
I will miss him
I’m sorry to hear..my condolences to both of you and your family. I read the obituary about him and it was a wonderful tribute. My sympathy, Mary Dobbins
neighbor
STEVE WAS A GOOD COUSIN AND FRIEND. MAY HE RIP.