Stephen Joseph Bacharach, better known by those who loved him as "Pa," was born on October 3, 1943, and passed away peacefully at home on November 16, 2023, surrounded by his family.

He grew up in New Orleans' Lower Ninth Ward and was a Slidell resident since 1979. Stephen is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia (Patton); children Stephen Paul (Christin), Stephanie (Steve) and Kristine (Richard); grandchildren Paul (Brooke) and Nicholas; great-grandchildren Birdie and Reine; brother Harold (Bernadette); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Emile Bacharach, and Alice (Doullut).

Stephen began his life-long musical journey in high school, playing saxophone in the Holy Cross marching band and was a talented, dedicated musician thereafter. He played piano/keyboards and saxophone in several bands throughout his life including Paper Steamboat, The Nobles and Bobby Ohler's Harbor Band. Music was a constant in Stephen's life and his distinctive singing voice was powerful and soulful.

In addition to his musical talents, Pa had a special way with animals. He was a gentle soul and once befriended a feral cat he named "Sweetie." He painstakingly socialized her for years until she eventually became his lap (and chest) cat that cuddled up to him and brought him endless joy and love.

A casual celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Patton's Salmen Fritchie House, 127 Cleveland Avenue, Slidell, Louisiana from 2pm – 5pm. Musicians – bring your axe!

Arrangements by Honaker Funeral Home, Inc., Slidell, LA.