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Obituary of Edward Arthur Steffens
Edward Arthur Steffens
Born June 1948, passed away on May 22, 2014. Ed is predeceased by his parents, Eleanor & Arthur Steffens; and is survived by his sister, Janice, married to Wayne Shapiro with three nephews; Jason, Adam and Eric. Ed has dear friends who he leaves including the Rev. Gerald Appleby, Linda Underhill, Barb & Wayne Swiecki & Larry and Margo VanEtten as well as numerous colleagues, friends and students he knew throughout his life.
Edward transplanted himself from Long Island to Rochester when he attended RIT where he earned both a BS and MBA degree. Edward had a love of learning combined with a great sense of humor and fun. Many knew Ed as a teacher and colleague. Few knew he started his teaching career while attending RIT, when working at the student radio station he assumed the role of Professor Van Leddercranse. He assisted all by dispensing advice to those who called in with answers to questions regarding their studies, life and love affairs. During his 42 year career at RIT, Ed worked in a variety of positions most notably as the Director of Special Events at RIT and as a member of the faculty in the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, teaching event planning and leadership courses. In his early days at the University, Ed and his band of colleagues would arrange performances to roast RIT’s Student Affairs leadership, providing them with lessons from the Book of WRIT. The Underhill family adopted Ed early in his life in Rochester. Within the family he wore many hats including that of son, friend, brother, mentor and champion for all the endeavors of the Underhill’s. Ed loved to travel and experience new opportunities. He taught and lived in Croatia as well as traveled with friends throughout Europe, always prepared for the next great travel adventure when it presented itself. Ed’s curiosity extended to learning about plants and he became the go to person when problems were experienced with difficulties with foliage. Ed has served in many roles, that of frog rescuer, arborist, teacher, colleague, friend and will be deeply missed by all he touched. He would ask you to remember him and celebrate his life in your thoughts.
Thank you to the health care providers who did so much for Edward during his six month’s battle. A special thanks to the SMH, 7th floor, 1400 unit for all the care and compassion given to Ed during his last hospital stay.
Please join together to remember him at a Mass of the Resurrection at Marianne Cope Parish, Guardian Angels, Roman Catholic Church (2061 E. Henrietta Rd) on SATURDAY, June 14th at 10 AM.
Home
Pittsford, New York
Birthplace
Queens, New York