Steven F. Mendoza

Steven F. Mendoza, age 56, of Dartmouth, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on April 15, 1970, in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Steven was the cherished son of Florence A. (Oliveira) Mendoza and the late Alfred Mendoza.

Throughout his life, Steven demonstrated a passion for modified racing, not only as a fan of the sport, but as someone deeply invested in the racing community. He proudly supported local tracks, race teams, and drivers, eventually fulfilling a dream by starting his own race team. The racetrack and race shops were among his favorite places – not just for the competition, but for the friendships, stories, and memories made along the way.

Steven was the kind of person that people naturally gravitated toward. His dry sense of humor, quick wit, and endless quest to have fun made every gathering better simply because he was there. Steven lived for the next adventure, enjoying the journey just as much as the destination. He had a way of making ordinary moments unforgettable, often with a perfectly timed comment and a smirk that let you know he was enjoying every minute. Once you met him, you wanted him around. Above all, he valued friendships. Loyal, dependable, and always ready to lend a hand, he built lifelong bonds with the people lucky enough to know him. His friends were like family, and the love and respect they shared spoke volumes about the man he was.

One of his greatest gifts was the connection he shared with children particularly his niece, Samantha, and nephew, Hunter. Kids looked forward to seeing him, drawn to his playful spirit and ability to make them feel special. Whether riding escalators at the mall, going on wild golf cart rides, joking around, or simply giving them his attention, he created lasting memories for so many young people who adored him.

He will be remembered for his laughter, his loyalty, and the joy he brought into the lives of others. Though he will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the racing community, his spirit will live on in the roar of the engines, the friendships he built, and the countless memories shared by those fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace.

Steven is survived by his loving mother, Florence A. Mendoza, brother, Richard Mendoza and partner Linda Kimel, sister Jody Lauzon and her husband Steven Lauzon, extended family, and countless friends that became family.

Visiting hours for Steven will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Perry Funeral Home from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. His funeral service will take place on Monday morning, beginning in the funeral home at 9:00 AM, and followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s Church in Dartmouth at 10:00 AM. Interment will immediately follow at Naskatucket Cemetery in Fairhaven, Massachusetts.

Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, MA, has been entrusted with the arrangements and warmly welcomes all who wish to pay their respects. The facility is thoughtfully equipped with a lighted parking lot and handicap-accessible ramp and entrance, ensuring the comfort and convenience of all attendees.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dana Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Steve to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via dana-farber.org/gift