Steven J. Mulvaney

Steven J. Mulvaney, 70, passed away unexpectedly on January 20, 2025 following a brief illness.

He is survived by his two children, Allison Mulvaney of Hingham, MA, and Scott (Michelle) Mulvaney of Fort Lauderdale, FL, as well as his four grandchildren; Simon, Calvin, Ace, and Maple. He also is survived by his sister, Susan Mulvaney of Providence, RI, and his brother, Patrick (Dawn) Mulvaney of Sunderland, MA, as well as his three nephews. Steven is predeceased by his loving parents, Barbara and S. Donald Mulvaney of Florence, MA. 

Steven was born in Northampton, MA and grew up in Florence, MA. He spoke fondly of his teen years, playing cards at Look Park and competing as a member of the high school ski team. School was not a challenge for him, which afforded him plenty of time for fun and mischief. 

After high school, he worked as a postal worker and took classes towards his bachelor’s, while still enjoying skiing, trips to Cape Cod and other adventures. While completing his bachelor’s at UMass Amherst, a colleague recognized Steven’s extraordinary mind and suggested he apply to Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. Steven later shared that he had no idea Cornell was an Ivy League school, he simply took the friend's suggestion. 

Steven thrived at Cornell, earning his Master’s and PhD in Food Science. After receiving his doctorate he moved his family to Columbia, MO where he began his teaching career as an associate professor at the University of Missouri. Shortly after, Steven and his family returned to Ithaca where he was hired to teach at Cornell. Steven remained a professor at Cornell until his retirement. During this time he established himself as an expert in the field of food chemistry and cereal science and was invited to speak at scientific conferences around the world. His many publications and contributions to the field will live on. Steven loved his work researching and teaching at Cornell. The epitome of an “absent-minded professor,” academics proved a better fit than mail delivery. Steven often laughed as he recalled heading out on his postal route, only to realize he had forgotten to bring the mail. 

Outside of work, Steven remained active and enjoyed playing pick-up basketball games at Barton Hall. He also spent many late nights happily shooting baskets in the driveway with his son. He continued to ski and golf, and took up fly fishing. He looked forward to annual visits to the horse races in Saratoga, NY. He coached little league baseball for his son’s team, the South Hill Magic. Steven raised his kids in the Deer Run neighborhood of Ithaca, where he was often quarterback for the neighborhood football games. 

As he got older, Steven continued to appreciate a good meal and watching football. He always had a reverence for nature and enjoyed wildlife. He also enjoyed playing cards with his grandson, Simon. He would regularly FaceTime with his son’s family, recollecting the joys of raising young children. His grandson, Ace, was always eager to take the phone and talk with his grandpa. Steven loved his children and grandchildren. 

Though his later years were more challenging, Steven never complained, or spoke ill of anyone. He listened attentively and offered compassionate advice. We can all learn from his kind and humble nature. The world lost a brilliant mind with his passing. He will be greatly missed. 

A memorial gathering will be held at Scarlet Oak Tavern in Hingham, MA on Sunday, February 16th from 1-4pm. 

 See www.Keohane.com for directions and online condolences.