James Steven VanDerzee

Steve was such a warm and welcoming presence around the woodworkers' shop. He was always eager to offer advice and guidance and had such a graceful way of imparting his experience. It was a pleasure and an honor getting to learn from him. I know I'll remember him every time I use a lathe.

I met Steve years ago, when we both worked for Tax and Finance. He always helped with my rush printing requests! Always took good care of me. We were friends. Funny, I knew Steve before he ever met Shirley. Ceccucci is not a common name. When they met, years later, he told her he knew a Ceccucci. She thought he was nuts, no one is familiar with that name. Well, he was, small world. Steve was a very nice guy. I´ll miss seeing him, almost daily, miss saying hello to him on his cycle....

Steve was a very kind person who was always willing to volunteer and lend a hand. As a new woodworker, Steve helped me numerous times and it was always a delight to see him at the shop and at volunteer events. He will be missed.

Steve was part of our extended family of cousins. As kids, despite the difference in our ages, "Stevie" was a part of the neighborhood gang. Many decades later, we would occasionally run into each other (on the street, in a store, even in the hospital). He ALWAYS had a big smile on his face. A good soul.

My sincere condolences to the VanDerzee family. May he rest in peace. Lynda Persico Lombardo Class of 78

A good man.