BROOKSVILLE – Stephen Lewis Mesteller, 94, passed away Oct. 10, 2010, after a brief illness. He was born May 12, 1916, in Abaujvar, Hungary, the son of Stephen and Susan (Vargo) Mesteller. Steve immigrated to the United States in 1921 with his family, settling in Phillipsburg, N.J. After graduation from Bloomfield College and Seminary in 1939, Steve worked for Crucible Steel, Harrison, N.J., before entering Naval Officer Training School. A member of the greatest generation, Steve proudly served his country during World War II and the Korean War as commanding officer on the minesweeper, A.M. 101, USS Herald. While stationed in Norfolk, Va., the purchase of a camellia corsage for his young bride, Jean, served as the catalyst for the newlyweds to open a florist business after the war. A lifelong passion for gardening and a natural eye for landscape design coupled with Jean’s artistic ability, led to the opening of Pine Florist, Verona, N.J., which the couple owned and operated for 35 years prior to moving to Brooksville in 1982. Steve never forgot those who helped him as a young immigrant and aspired to help others in similar situations reach their goals, mentoring and inspiring many former employees to open their own businesses. From 1982 until his death, Steve gardened with a passion, participating in farmers markets in Blue Hill, Brooksville, Ellsworth and Stonington, as well as running a small vegetable stand; retirement was never an option for Steve. While living in New Jersey, Steve was an active member of Verona United Methodist Church and upon moving, united in membership with West Brooksville Congregational Church UCC, serving both congregations in various capacities throughout the years. Steve served his community through membership in local Rotary, Masons and Odd Fellow organizations. Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Jean Holloway Mesteller of Brooksville; daughters, Susan Smedal and husband, Harald, and Pamela Capurso and husband, Paul, all of Brooksville; special daughter, Pauline Mundy and husband, John, of Independence, Mo.; grandchildren, Matthew Smedal, Katrina Smedal, David Rackliffe and Jody Rackliffe, Pamela Sue Dudley, John Mundy, Brian Mundy, Allen Mundy and families; and sister, Bertha Andrews of Alpha, N.J. Steve was predeceased by his parents; sisters, Ilona Mesteller and Irma Nemeth; and brother, James Mesteller. A celebration of Steve’s life will be held 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16, at West Brooksville Congregational Church with the Rev. Allen C. Myers and the Rev. Harald A. Smedal officiating. Gifts in memory of Steve may be sent to West Brooksville Congregational Church, care of Joyce Leck, P.O. Box 295, Brooksville, ME 04617. Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.
STEPHEN LEWIS MESTELLER
