Stevie was my childhood friend first and foremost. He was always kind and sweet. No drama, just fun. I missed him so much in the summer when he went away for long road trips and camping. The Pruyn Hill gang just wasn’t the same when he was gone.

As we got older, instead of riding bikes, playing catch and hide and go seek; we switched to skiing, boating and going on vacations. And the friendship just grew stronger. Stevie simply lit up a room. He made you smile and feel good. Somewhere along those years, Stevie became my brother as well as my friend. We celebrated many milestones together. He loved my parents, husband and children as if they were family and I love his beautiful wife Janet like a sister and Emily and Ian as a niece and nephew.

There is so much I admire about my dear friend Stevie. I admire his strength, intelligence, integrity, sense of humor and adventure, style and grace. But above all, Stevie will be remembered for his kindness and love for his family and friends and how he made everyone feel. Loved.

Until we meet again,

Suzanne Choopani

Always smiling! NYLIC Club 1986