Steven Burgwin, 67, Beloved Cicero Resident and Avid Motorcyclist, Dies in Tragic Collision with SUV on Thursday Morning: Community Mourns the Loss of a Husband, Father, and Longtime Friend – Obituary, Death
The town of Cicero is mourning the tragic death of 67-year-old Steven Burgwin, a beloved local resident and avid motorcyclist, who was killed on Thursday morning in a fatal collision with an SUV. Steven’s life was cut short when his motorcycle collided with an oncoming SUV in a devastating crash on South Bay Road. The accident occurred around 9 a.m., and despite the swift response of emergency services, Steven succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His sudden passing has left his family, friends, and the entire Cicero community in deep shock and grief, as they remember a man who was known for his kindness, generosity, and passion for motorcycles.
Steven Burgwin was born on June 15, 1957, in Syracuse, New York. He was the youngest of three children and was raised in a family that valued hard work, honesty, and a strong sense of community. Growing up in Cicero, Steven developed a deep love for motorcycles at a young age. His father, Richard Burgwin, was a motorcycle enthusiast, and Steven spent much of his childhood in the garage, learning about bikes and developing a passion that would stay with him for the rest of his life. Steven’s love for motorcycles was more than just a hobby; it became an integral part of his identity and a source of joy throughout his life.
Steven attended Cicero-North Syracuse High School, where he excelled academically and was known for his friendly, easygoing nature. He had a wide circle of friends and was always the first to offer a helping hand to anyone in need. After graduating in 1975, Steven pursued a career in mechanics, a natural extension of his passion for working on motorcycles and other vehicles. He went on to become a skilled mechanic, working in various auto repair shops around the area. His expertise, combined with his commitment to helping others, earned him a reputation as a trusted and reliable mechanic in the community.
In 1980, Steven married the love of his life, Karen, whom he had met while working at a local garage. Their marriage was a true partnership, built on love, trust, and a shared sense of adventure. Together, they raised two children, Jessica and Brian, who were the center of Steven’s world. As a father, Steven was dedicated and loving, always putting his family first. He took great pride in watching his children grow and achieve their dreams, and he was their biggest supporter in all aspects of their lives. Steven’s role as a father extended beyond his immediate family, as he was also a mentor and father figure to many of his children’s friends, who admired him for his wisdom and warmth.
Steven’s love for motorcycles remained a constant throughout his life. He spent countless hours restoring vintage bikes and going on long rides through the scenic roads of upstate New York. Riding brought him a sense of freedom and peace, and he cherished the camaraderie he shared with fellow motorcyclists. For Steven, riding wasn’t just a pastime—it was a way of life. He participated in numerous charity rides and motorcycle events, where he formed close bonds with others who shared his passion. Those who rode with him often spoke of his skill and confidence on the road, as well as his unwavering commitment to safety.
Tragically, it was during one of these rides that Steven’s life came to a sudden and devastating end. On the morning of October 3, 2024, Steven was traveling northbound on South Bay Road when he collided with an SUV that was making a left-hand turn from Whiting Road. According to witnesses, the driver of the SUV appeared to have misjudged the distance between the two vehicles, leading to the fatal collision. The impact of the crash was severe, and despite the rapid response of local law enforcement and paramedics, Steven could not be saved. He was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving his family and friends grappling with the profound shock and heartbreak of his loss.
The driver of the SUV, whose name has not yet been released by authorities, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with the investigation. At this time, no charges have been filed, and the investigation into the accident is ongoing. Local law enforcement has urged the community to exercise caution on the roads and to be especially mindful of motorcyclists, who are often more vulnerable in collisions with larger vehicles.
The death of Steven Burgwin has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the Cicero community. His wife, Karen, has expressed her profound sorrow at the loss of her husband, saying, “Steven was my rock, my best friend, and the love of my life. I can’t imagine a world without him in it. He was always there for me and for our children, and his kindness and generosity touched everyone he met. We are devastated, but we are also grateful for the love and support we’ve received from our friends and community during this difficult time.”
Steven’s children, Jessica and Brian, are also mourning the loss of their father. Jessica, who followed in her father’s footsteps by becoming a mechanic, spoke about the influence her father had on her life. “Dad taught me everything I know about cars and bikes, but more than that, he taught me how to be a good person,” she said. “He always said that it wasn’t about what you did, but how you treated people. He was the best dad anyone could ask for, and I’m going to miss him every day.” Brian, who shared his father’s love for motorcycles, added, “Dad and I used to go on rides together all the time. Those were some of my favorite moments with him, just the two of us on the open road. I’m going to miss those rides more than anything.”
As news of Steven’s death spread, tributes began pouring in from the local community. Friends and neighbors have expressed their condolences, sharing stories of Steven’s kindness, generosity, and love for life. One friend, who had known Steven for over 30 years, said, “Steven was one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met. He was always there when you needed him, and he had a heart of gold. His loss is a tragedy, and he’s going to be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.” Another friend, who often rode with Steven, described him as “a brother on the road” and said, “Riding will never be the same without him.”
The Cicero community is planning a memorial ride in Steven’s honor, with proceeds going to a local charity that supports families affected by motorcycle accidents. The ride is expected to draw motorcyclists from across the region, all of whom are coming together to celebrate Steven’s life and his love for the open road. The family has also asked that donations be made in Steven’s name to the American Motorcyclist Association, an organization that promotes motorcycle safety and awareness.
The outpouring of support for Steven’s family has been overwhelming, and Karen, Jessica, and Brian have expressed their gratitude for the kindness and compassion shown by friends, neighbors, and strangers alike. In a statement, the family said, “We are deeply touched by the love and support we’ve received from the community. Steven was a wonderful husband, father, and friend, and we are comforted by the fact that so many people cared about him. We know that he would have been proud to see the way people have come together to honor his memory.”
As the investigation into the accident continues, the Cicero community is left to mourn the loss of a man who touched so many lives. Steven’s death is a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance on the part of both drivers and motorcyclists. While his passing has left an undeniable void, the legacy of kindness, generosity, and love that Steven Burgwin leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Rest in peace, Steven Burgwin. Your life was a gift to all who knew you, and your memory will live on in the hearts of your family, friends, and community. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
