SILVER CREEK — One year after the loss of New York State Thruway Authority employee Stephen “Steve” Ebling, co-workers, family members, and union leaders gathered at the Silver Creek Maintenance Section to dedicate a permanent memorial in his honor.
Ebling, a Thruway maintenance supervisor 1, was killed on Nov. 4, 2024, while working along I-90 in the town of Hanover. He was 58.
A 15-year Authority employee,, Ebling began his supervisory career at Albany Maintenance before returning to Western New York to be closer to home. Over his career, he worked in nearly every section within the Buffalo Division, earning the respect of his peers for his steady leadership and strong work ethic.
Outside of his duties with the Thruway Authority, Ebling also served as a part-time police officer with the North Collins Police Department, dedicating his life to public service both on and off the highway.
He was a caring and committed husband, father, brother and friend, remembered for putting others first and cherishing time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Belindie; sons, Joel and Brett, along with his mother, sister and brothers.
The new memorial, featuring a flag and plaque dedicated to Ebling now stands as a lasting tribute to his life and legacy. The site was created through the collaborative efforts of Thruway Authority leadership and maintenance staff, offering a quiet place for reflection and remembrance.
During the dedication ceremony, CSEA New York State Thruway Authority Local President Sean Kennedy spoke about the deep loss felt by the Thruway community and the importance of carrying Ebling’s legacy forward.
“Today isn’t about legislation or policy,” said Kennedy. “Today is about remembrance. I know everyone out there has seen the weight and cost of losing Steve in the faces of those who loved him — in his family, co-workers and friends.”
Kennedy reflected on how Ebling’s passing left a lasting impact on those who worked beside him and inspired a renewed commitment to protecting one another.
“We’ll do everything we can to make sure something like this doesn’t happen again,” said Kennedy. “This memorial will serve as a place of remembrance, dedication, reflection and, hopefully, a reminder to everyone of the sacrifices it takes coming to work [at the Thruway] every day.”
Kennedy noted that Ebling’s service and spirit will endure through the work of those who continue to serve.
“Together, we will carry Steve’s name, work, and legacy forward to make sure it endures for generations to come,” said Kennedy.
Ebling’s name is also engraved on the Fallen Workers Memorial Wall at Thruway headquarters in Albany, where it joins 22 others who have lost their lives while performing their jobs.
Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank Hoare reflected on the anniversary of Ebling’s passing, encouraging all staff to honor his memory by reaffirming their commitment to safety and mutual care.
“As we reflect today, one year since Steve’s death, let us also reaffirm our commitment to continue to enhance safety for our employees, emergency personnel, and our motorists,” said Hoare. “Our crews face risks every day, and their lives depend on everyone on the road remaining alert and making safety a priority.”
— Sara McNicholas
