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On behalf of Brookline Youth Hockey, I am writing to express our deepest sympathies with regard to the passing of Steve. In the 1970's and 80's, the Town of Brookline enjoyed unprecedented success with its sports programs, carrying on a legacy of excellence established by a prior generation. Its town programs flourished, and its youth hockey and baseball teams won State and New England titles. Many individuals went on to enjoy successful college, and even professional careers. Steve was an instrumental part of all this. Whether umpiring baseball games at Eliot field, or refereeing hockey at Larz Anderson, Steve was a fixture in the lives of many young Brookline athletes. He took his job seriously and acted professionally. He was reliable and honest. Firm to draw the line but quick to forgive, Steve had a unique and effective way of diffusing the difficult situations that umpires and referees often find themselves in. Time and time again, Steve stepped into a role that is often a thankless one. He loved to work and never asked for thanks. But he deserves our thanks because, without him, much of our collective success would not have been possible.

I played youth hockey with Steve and always remember his dad at our games. I hadn't seen Steve in decades but ran into him when he was the referee of youth hockey game that I was coaching. After all those years, it was a real treat talking to Steve around a sport that we both played together.

I graduated high school with Steve and also went to elementary school with him. Always love to play baseball. Real good guy.