Stephen Anthony Tripodi

Stephen Anthony Tripodi

INDIAN LAKE ESTATES, Fla. - Stephen Anthony Tripodi, 88, from Indian Lake Estates, passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, at Winter Haven Hospital, surrounded by his beloved wife and loving family.

Steve was born May 24, 1935, and was the second son of Fiorentino and Brunina Vavala Tripodi. On Nov. 28, 1953, he married Florence B. Steudler, in Johnsonburg, Pa.

Born and raised in Johnsonburg, upon his father's unexpected passing, he became co-owner of Tripodi Bros construction, where he honed his carpentry and home building skills. His aspirations led him to Olean, N.Y., in his early thirties.

Soon after his arrival in Olean, he assumed ownership of Erie Builder Supply Co. (1973), propelling his career as a local businessman. He successfully steered the business until his early seventies when he decided to sell (2006).

Throughout his time in Olean, Steve actively participated in the community, contributing to St. Mary's Catholic Church as a devoted parishioner. Additionally, he demonstrated his commitment to community service by taking on leadership roles in organizations such as the National Exchange Club, serving as president; and The Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree Knight.

Discovering a passion for golf as a young man, Steve garnered acclaim evidenced by three holes in one! Notably, he presided as president of Bartlett County Club in 1985-1986. Steve also found enjoyment in card games, achieving the remarkable feat of landing five royal flushes in his lifetime, although luck was not always on his side during family Back Alley matches.

Nearly 22 years ago, Steve and his wife, Florence Topper, made the move to Florida and settled in Indian Lake Estates. There, he became an integral part of the Indian Lake Estates golf club, actively engaging in service to the community. He continued his religious affiliation as a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

Steve is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 70 years, Florence Steudler Tripodi; seven children, Marie Grandinetti of Pennsylvania, Beth (Thomas) DaPolito of Colorado, Susanne Tripodi of New Mexico, Stephen (Georgine) Tripodi of New York, Francis Tripodi of New York, Colette Forrest (Gary Berger) of New York and Lisa (Howard) Allen of New York; 21 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Joseph (Bobbie) Tripodi of Arizona.

Steve was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Beverley Jean Tripodi in 1964; his sisters, Grace (Stephen) Tassone and Mary (Melvin) Sarginger; brother, Francis Peter (Grace) Tripodi; and son-in-law, Dennis Grandinetti.

At this time, services are not scheduled.

Steve was a perpetual contributor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Saint Joseph's Indian School, Shriners and Boy's Town.

A poem of significance from Steve:

Fill Not Your Heart

Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow but remember me in every tomorrow. Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles, I've only gone to rest a little while.

Although my leaving causes pain and grief, my going has eased my hurt and given me relief.

So, dry your eyes and remember me, not as I am now but as I used to be.

Because I will remember you all and look on with a smile.

Understand, in your hearts, I've only gone to rest a little while.

As long as I have the love of each of you, I can live my life in the hearts of all of you. ~ Joey Beighley