Joseph S. STEVENS

STEVENS, Joseph S,

97, of Seminole, passed away November 14, 2016. Born in Ohio, and brought up in New York City, he was a graduate of Kent State University College of Business and went on to work for two of the nation's largest accounting firms as accountant and auditor. Later, he became treasurer and vice president of two educational publishing houses before retiring as a vice president of Xerox Corporation. He served as an officer in several community service organizations and business and professional clubs during his career, and was twice chosen president of the National Association of Accountants. Joe retired to Florida where he and his wife, Fran, took up the sport of sailing. They joined the St. Petersburg Yacht club and The St. Petersburg Sail and Power Squadron, where they were tireless volunteers throughout the years in promoting safe boating through teaching classes, inspecting boats, monitoring races and regattas and serving cheerfully in any position asked of them, including that of Commander of SPSPS. Joe and Fran forged wonderful friendships through sailing. Joe, along with his friends Burry, Fred, and Murray, known respectfully as "The Boys" would head out nearly every weekend, regardless of weather, and sail or motor as far as they could before they had to reluctantly return home. Their exploits were legendary. All his friends will remember his recipe for a long life: "A martini a day!" His beloved Fran passed away just a year ago, and their son, Jeffrey S., several years before. He was lonely without them, and passed peacefully away. No public services are planned. Local survivors include daughter-in-law, Linda and her husband, Stuart Christman, Yacht Club and Squadron friends, neighbors of Venetian Isles, The Mainlands, and Lake Seminole Square. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the causes Joe and Fran supported: The Stevens Family Scholarship at the Kent State University College of Business or to the St. Petersburg Sail and Power Squadron Education Fund. Condolences can be left at www.andersonmcqueen.com