Steven Ray Apotheker

I was fortunate to work with Steve on several legislative initiatives in the late 1980s to advance recycling in Illinois. Steve was smart, savvy and knew how to get things done. He will be greatly missed.

I am fortunate to have known Steve. I always felt encouraged and included by Steve. In reading his obit I realize I was far from alone and wonder how many folks he knew by first name. I've often wondered how many people don't know they were lead by Steve, his sweaters and bike fenders - I remember him biking over Tryon Creek (steep hill) in the rain to a focus group...in the 90s nobody else I knew had done that.

Dear Family and Friends-
Thanks for your care and concern for Steve during these last few years of tough times. While Steve and I talked only a few times as the years passed we realized that not only did we pursue the recycling mission together, but we also had the common experience of cohousing. I only realized in the past few days that Steve had died and it makes me pause to think about the contributions he made to making the world a better place. Thanks Buddy, I appreciated it.

Dear Family & Friends: I knew Steve from the world of recycling for over 20 years. While he was at Resource Recycling,and afterwards at Portland Metro as well, he was my'go to' guy for all sorts of questions and problems, especially while I was trying to establish recycling programs here in Orange Co. NC. Our program now thriving in its 24th year has, like so many others, been 'touched' by Steve's wise & guiding mind and words. He was a true believer and a great friend to the earth. We are...

I am so glad I had the privilege of knowing Steve and working with him. My first week at Metro we met and discussed what needed to be done to purchase wood products through sustainable sources. He tought me a lot about sustainability in purchasing, and he also showed me how one person can indeed make a difference on this earth.

One thing I always liked about Steve was his fair-mindedness and respect for fact, argument, logic, and theory. Our paths crossed frequently in the 1980s when we worked with many others on helping the National Recycling Coalition to represent the best interests of reusers and recyclers. As we became more specialized and successful, we lost contact, which I now regret.

We are Sabin Green extend our deepest condolences to your family. Steve made such an impact on our community and was a remarkable example of a life well-lived. Know we are thinking of you and hope to be of help in the coming months.

Dear Jesse,

I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's passing. I know how difficult of a year this has been for you. From your writings and meeting him a few times, I can tell he was a wonderful man and had a great influence on you. Please pass on my condolences to the rest of your family.