Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Steve and I worked together for 19 years at FL Power/Progress Energy. He was the substation designer and I acquired substation sites so we worked closely together. I remember my first day at Fl Power, almost 40 years ago, Steve made an inquiry about me through a mutual friend. And that is how we met and became very good friends. We shared a lot of secrets and a lot of good times. He didn’t like me to call him Stephen…he said only his mother called him Stephen! We would both arrive to work early and he would always come by my desk to chat. He once gave me an apple for my birthday instead of cake b/c he knew I was on a diet! Steve had a soft spot which made him have a generous heart. He had me play Secret Santa to a girl in the office that was struggling. She cried when I gave her an envelope full of money. Steve swore me to secrecy. He took me for a motorcycle ride and told me to hang on tight, then he said I squeezed him too hard. And it wasn’t because of his driving…I think we only went around the block! Steve was always writing little saying on notes and I told him if his day job didn’t work out he could get a job at Hallmark! When he moved back to St Pete, Mary and I helped him purchase his beautiful retirement home. Well, Steve didn’t get that job at Hallmark, but he did fine a passion for making beautiful, handcrafted cards that brought joy to so many. He made them for his friends, his family, grandkids, neighbors, probably strangers, too! But, he missed my birthday this year and I wondered why he didn’t send me a card. Then I learned why. Last time we chatted, he was bragging about his grandkids, and he had to cut our conversation short to take Aiden to a flying lesson. He really loved his family and was so proud of all his grandkids! One last thing…Steve took flying lessons too, and on a solo flight, he lost his way and had to fly so low to read the signs on I-4 to find his way home! He never piloted again!! I miss you already, Steve. ‘Till we meet again, my friend.
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