Stephen Lehrer

DATELINE: Cranston

Lehrer, Stephen, 71, died Saturday, February 13, 2021 at RI Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Freda (Stone) Lehrer of Cranston for 43 years. Born in Providence, a son of the late Saul and Helen (Resnick) Lehrer, he had lived in Cranston for 43 years, previously living on the East Side of Providence.  He was a member of Temple Sinai in Cranston and Temple Emanu-El in Providence. He graduated from Hope High School in 1967, Brown University with a degree in Civil Engineering, and RIC with a Master’s degree in education. He taught for over 30 years in the Bristol and then Bristol/Warren School System as a high school math teacher and technology coordinator. He was a trainer for Teachers in Technology. Stephen worked for years at Camp JORI as assistant director, and then starting in 1991 worked in the summers as program director at Camp Taconic in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. He was the volunteer usher coordinator at Trinity Repertory Company for many years. Stephen was an avid Boston sports fan, and enjoyed playing basketball at the JCC in Providence and riding his bike in the Berkshires.

Devoted father of Stacey Lehrer of Warwick and Andrew Lehrer and his wife, Jia Leung, of Cranston. Loving grandfather of Sophie Lehrer. Dear brother of Joanne Lehrer and her husband, Steven Chianesi, of Cranston. Uncle of Robert and Jeffrey Stone, and Christopher, Jennifer, and Matthew Chianesi.

Due to Covid-19, funeral services and shiva will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to The Louis & Goldie Chester Full Plate Kosher Food Pantry (1165 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904), Trinity Repertory Company (201 Washington Street, Providence, RI 02903), or your favorite charity.

96 Comments

  1. Paul & Debra Formal
    Feb 13, 2021

    Steve was the nicest peson I have ever known. Many years ago I started the Steve Lehrer award for good Sportsmanship. Steve always helped everyone, expecting nothing in return. He was always the perfect teammate. We always socialized together with his wonderful wife Freda. He was so proud of his fantastic children. He worked for MS. He supported Trinity Theater. He volunteered for the JCC. On and on …. Steve Lehrer was the best friend and human being I have ever known. Love xoxoxo Paul and Debbie

  2. Steve and Joan Levitt
    Feb 13, 2021

    We are sadden to hear about Steve’s passing. He was a quintessential gentleman. A real loss to everyone. Our condolences to his entire family

  3. Naira Aslanyan
    Feb 14, 2021

    I wanted to extend my condolences to the family and my friend Stacey. This is truly heartbreaking. May you find comfort in remembering your father and his legacy lives through his wonderful children.

  4. Lou Pulner
    Feb 14, 2021

    I’m saddened by the news of Steve’s passing. I’ve known Steve most of my life, almost exclusively through JCC basketball, especially on Sunday mornings for ever and ever. I’ll always remember him as a beautiful and gentle man who never had a negative thing to say about anyone. And, he was a damn good ball player. Rest in peace old friend

  5. Alan Litwin
    Feb 14, 2021

    So sorry to hear this news. Steve was a true gentleman always. So many years of great basketball memories and great conversations. He will be missed.

  6. Alan Gladstone
    Feb 14, 2021

    Stephen was like my brother.
    We have known each other for more than 60 years as we went to camp together.
    When Freda who is my cousin, and more like my sister said when she got engaged to Stephen, she said”Alan I would like to introduce you to my fiance, Stephen.” I said “‘yeah, I have known Stephen longer than you.
    My two sons grew up being very close to Andrew and Stacey.
    We have all been at milestone events together.
    Everyone’s Bal Mitzvah’s, Bat Mitzvah’s, weddings, etc.
    My heart goes out to Freda.
    The good lord needed a new basketball player for his team.
    Now he has one

  7. Marshall and Barbara Gerstenblatt
    Feb 14, 2021

    Barbara and I are so sorry to hear of Steves passing. As an Assistant Director at Camp Jori for many years he was hard working and dedicated. We send our deepest sympathies to Freda, Stacey, Andrew and the rest of his family.

  8. Naomi and Bob Halpert
    Feb 14, 2021

    Dear Freda,
    We are so saddened to learn of Stephen’s death.
    You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

  9. Stanley Freedman
    Feb 14, 2021

    My heart-felt condolences to a wonderful family.
    May you be comforted by the spirit of Hasem.

  10. Susan Steiner
    Feb 14, 2021

    What a shock to hear of Steve’s passing. His kindness and thoughtfulness is one of his many legacies. My heartfelt thoughts are surrounding you Freda, and the rest of the family.

  11. Tammy and Butch Noummano
    Feb 14, 2021

    Butch and I had the pleasure of working with Steve at Camp Taconic. Steve has a huge camp family who will miss him terribly.

  12. Stephen Rappoport
    Feb 14, 2021

    Dear Freda & Family
    I am saddened by learning of Stephen’s passing. May your family’s wonderful memories of Stephen get you through this troubling time. I extend my deepest sympathies.
    Steve

  13. Dianne Kolb
    Feb 14, 2021

    We are shocked and saddened to learn of Stephen’s passing.
    Over the years we have been blessed to share in many family events, as well as enjoy a warm friendship with the Lehrer family.
    Our hearts ache for each of you, but especially for Freda.
    May you all be strengthened by the love, memories, and prayers of family and friends.
    We extend our deepest sympathies.

  14. Elizabeth Harvey
    Feb 14, 2021

    I am so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. I am thinking of you and holding you in my prayers.

  15. The Frank Family
    Feb 14, 2021

    The Frank Family is deeply saddened by this sudden news. We have known Freda and Stephen and their beautiful family for as long as we have been a part of the Camp Taconic Family. Going back to 2005 when my eldest daughter started camp. Brittany once shared with me that she and Stephen would sit and play math games together whenever they had some spare time at camp. They shared a love for math and were good friends. Later on, I met Stephen and Freda when I started working at Camp Taconic. We had many meals together, always laughing and joking especially when we would try and get Stephen to actually sit down at the table with us. There are no words that can fully describe a man who is larger than life and has touched so many hearts. He will be missed deeply. May his memory always be a blessing.

  16. Kathy and Paul McCann
    Feb 14, 2021

    Paul and I are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. We always enjoyed our chats at Joanne’s house during the holidays. Our deepest sympathies to freda, Stacey, Andrew and the rest of the family.

  17. Mark Transport
    Feb 14, 2021

    Stephen was a smart, honorable man. He was soft spoken, but made his views known in a respectful way. He worked at Camp Taconic with me for many years and was liked by all. He was a true mensch and will be missed by all those who got to know him. May he Rest In Peace. Heaven now has someone who will post funny comic strips and other witty sayings!

  18. The Friedman Family
    Feb 14, 2021

    Jordan, Julia, Lianna and I (Louise) are so sorry Freda for you loss and it is such a huge loss to everyone in Steve’s Taconic family as well. I had the honor of working with him so many years and I learned so much from him. I will never forget being so impressed seeing him return from his bike rides through the mountainous Berkshires. Love to you

  19. Margery LeBeau
    Feb 14, 2021

    Freda, Stacy and Andrew & Jia,
    I am so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. May your memories sustain you during this difficult time and know you are in my thoughts and prayers. My sincere condolences…

  20. Tyler Dobrowsky
    Feb 14, 2021

    So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He was a truly wonderful, giving man who cared so much for his community. Condolences to his whole family.

  21. Heather and Ron
    Feb 14, 2021

    Dearest Freda, Stacey, Andrew, Jia and Sophia,
    We are stunned, and cannot imagine your grief. Stephen was such a sweet, intelligent, and wonderful part of your family and all his many activities. We are not too far away now to give you support in person when you are ready. Until then, please know that we will hold Stephen in our memory and you in our hearts and prayers.

  22. Steve was the nicest, warmest, and most sincere man I have ever known. We stayed friends since 5 years old. My wife Lauren was in their wedding and even though we were geographically distant would see each other in Rhode Island . Steve and Freda would come to our home in Florida and just enjoy being with each other like we did for decades.
    Steve gave me just pre Covid when we could still see each other a softball shirt on the team we played on in 1972. He had kept for me as a momento. I will wear it proudly tomorrow at my game in his honor thinking of him. As I’m writing this I’m thinking about our years at Camp Centerland.

    Thoughts and prayers to Freda and the entire family. The world has lost one of the best.

  23. Dana Laxer
    Feb 15, 2021

    I was lucky enough to know Steve (and Freda) through Taconic for the last 15 years. He was a genuinely kind, thoughtful, and hard working man, and he will be missed terribly by the entire Taconic community. May his memory be a blessing for all who knew him. Condolences to the whole Lehrer family.

  24. david S resnick
    Feb 15, 2021

    We are so shocked to hear the news about Stephen. A good man who always lent a helping hand to my Dad and answered all his computer issues. He will be missed. Carol and I send our deepest sympathies to Freda, Stacey and Andrew.

  25. Michael Field
    Feb 15, 2021

    I grew up with Stephen and have fond memories.
    May your wonderful memories serve as
    comfort to you always.

  26. Caputo Ladies
    Feb 15, 2021

    We send our deepest condolences to the Lehrer family.

  27. Dr. Edward Caputo
    Feb 15, 2021

    I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless.

  28. Michael Guy
    Feb 15, 2021

    Steve was such a steady and beloved presence at Trinity Rep, it is difficult to conceive that he will no longer be keeping a watchful eye over the lobbies. My condolences to his family.

  29. Doris Hull
    Feb 15, 2021

    Chuck and I were saddened to hear of Stephen’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  30. Eric Slifstein
    Feb 15, 2021

    We met Steve in our first summer at Taconic (2006). Steve was a close friend, mentor, and such a large part of our families summer experience. His morning ritual of bike ride, reading the Berkshire Eagle, and talking sports with me will be missed. Our condolences go out to the entire Lehrer family.

  31. Beth Penkala
    Feb 15, 2021

    I was saddened to hear that Stephen had passed. I will cherish the times we shared as a Math Dept at Mt Hope HS. We know there is a decked out bicycle waiting for you in your next life.

  32. Susan Schenck
    Feb 15, 2021

    Freda, so very sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.

    Susan Spero Schenck
    URI, Class of 1971 – Lambda Delta Phi

  33. Kerry Ellen McKeever
    Feb 15, 2021

    Dear Freda: My sincere and deep condolences to you, your family members, and friends in this time of loss. Goodness sometimes seems as though it is outweighed by the woes of this world, but Steve added so much of it during is lifetime that he tipped the balance back in the favor of goodness for all of those around him. I am sure he would want us all to take up the slack for him now that he is gone. So one more act of kindness, of goodness, each day in Steve’s name. Bless you all.

  34. Amanda Talbot
    Feb 15, 2021

    I am truly heartbroken to hear of Steve’s passing. His presence and leadership at Trinity Rep helped me to grow into my own leadership there. He was a pleasure to work with and talk to, a pillar of rules and process and always full of stories from TRC and Rhode Island Days of old. I will miss him deeply and send my condolences to his family.

  35. Sheila Weinberg
    Feb 15, 2021

    My husband taught with Steve at Bristol High School and saw him at breakfasts after they retired. I remember going to their first house that they were fixing up in East Providence so many years ago. Elliot spoke to a couple of Steve’s colleagues this morning when he found out of Steve’s passing. If only people could get half of the accolades of what Steve did and how he conducted himself wouldnt that be a wonderful world.

  36. Leon Resnick
    Feb 15, 2021

    My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to all of the Lehrer family. Steve was one of the finest men I have ever known, father, kind, helpful, intelligent, I have ever known, and a wonderful nephew. Leon Resnick

  37. Marianne Apice
    Feb 15, 2021

    So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He was always an early bird for student shows at Trinity, and such a hard worker. He had great stories to tell, and during Covid, always came by to give us a wave in the lobby.
    Condolences to his family.

  38. Dr.Edward Caputo
    Feb 15, 2021

    I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all your family. God bless

  39. Allyn Berman Margolies
    Feb 16, 2021

    Freda and Family,
    I am incredibly sad to hear that Steve has passed. He was my oldest and dearest friend, and he will always hold a place in my heart.

  40. Jenn Almada Andreozzi
    Feb 16, 2021

    I am a former student of Mr.Lehrer. He was a very intelligent man and wonderful human being. I had him for some computer class back in the 80’s and although I never understood any of it, I remember always enjoying his class. Most recently I saw him at Trinity with my own class and knew who he was right away even though it had been nearly 30 years since I had seen him. I am so sorry to hear this news of his passing and extend my condolences to his family and friends.

  41. Jeanine Collard
    Feb 16, 2021

    Freda,
    I am so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May the memories you have of your lives together help to console you in the days ahead. May Stephen rest in peace.

  42. Ken and Carol Smith
    Feb 16, 2021

    To Freda, Stacey and Andrew,

    We are so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. We have known you folks for a long time. Please accept our sincerest condolences. Carol and I will miss seeing Stephen walking Layla during our dog walks in the neighborhood. God bless.

  43. Anne Diamond
    Feb 16, 2021

    Dear Freda, Stacey, Andrew, and Jia,
    I just learned of this sad news and am heartbroken to hear of Steve’s passing. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you at this difficult time. Keeping you in my prayers. May he rest peacefully.

  44. Rick Gebhart
    Feb 16, 2021

    Dear Mrs Lehrer: I was so sad to read of your husband, Stephen’s passing. I think I may have only spoken to him a few times through the years as both Stacey and Andrew attended Cranston High School East and I worked in the guidance office. I always remember him as a strong family man and a real gentlman. He was so young which makes it even more sad. I do hope you, Stacey, Andrew and your entire family are holding up as well as possible. I will say prayers for his soul and those he left behind. Please accept my sincere condolences.

  45. John Silberman
    Feb 16, 2021

    I am very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers with the Lehrer family. Stephen’s grandmother Ida and my grandfather Harry with brother and sister.

  46. Kelly A McDonald
    Feb 16, 2021

    I worked alongside Steve for 15 years at Trinity Rep. He was a hard and dedicated worker. He took on the task of volunteer coordinator which was a job in itself. Steve will always be remembered at Trinity for wearing many hats here and will forever be the PD king. I am saddened to hear of his passing, and would like to offer my deepest condolences to Freda and Steve’s family.

  47. Michael Nulman
    Feb 16, 2021

    So sorry to read of Steve’s passing.
    He was a true gentleman and a great contributor to the community. While I knew him in our days at Hope and worked with him on reunions over the years I’m sure I would have been
    fortunate to have had him as a teacher. I can’t think of any of my classmates who have made a better one.

  48. Denise M. Boule
    Feb 16, 2021

    Steve was a wonderful educator and person
    on many fronts. Always offering a helping hand,
    always imparting his knowledge in a non judgmental
    manner, and always working toward the betterment
    of all! I will cherish our time spent at Mt. Hope.
    My heart goes out to you at this difficult time. I hope
    the love and memories shared warm your heart and soul.

  49. Martha Tisdell
    Feb 16, 2021

    Steve seemed to have endless energy and interests, I never knew where I would run into him next. Thanks to him my family enjoyed ushering at Trinity. My first few years as a math teacher I learned a lot from him at Bristol High School. There are countless students whose math knowledge benefitted from Steven’s teaching abilities. I am saddened to hear of his passing and know he will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

  50. Deborah J Thayer
    Feb 16, 2021

    Freda, what can I say? I am so sorry for your loss and Steve will be sadly missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayer are with you and your family at this difficult time.

  51. Jeff Feldman
    Feb 16, 2021

    Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Lehrer family. I met Steve when we were in the 5th grade. Even as a boy, his quick and piercing intelligence and his unfailing thoughtfulness and kindness were apparent — qualities that I think likely defined him for his entire life. Even decades later, the times that I connected with him — school reunions and the occasional email — always reinforced that early impression. I was very sad to hear about his passing, and for the deep loss that is felt by his family and friends. He was unlike any person I have met, and I’m certain that the model he set for others, both early in life and for a great community of people he taught and helped, will ensure that his memory and impact will remain alive and impactful for many years to come.

  52. Joan and Bob Higgins
    Feb 16, 2021

    Dear Freda and Family,
    Our condolences to each of you on your great loss. We will always fondly remember Stephen as such an amazing and kind neighbor.
    He was such a gracious person and now his legacy will live on through each of you. May all your special memories be a source of comfort and strength and in time always make you smile.
    With our prayers and thoughts always, Joan and Bob Higgins

  53. Linda Levitt
    Feb 16, 2021

    I am so sorry over the loss of this wonderful and kind person.
    Baruch Dayan Ha’Emet

  54. Bradly Widener
    Feb 16, 2021

    My deepest condolences to Freda and Steve’s family. Steve was hardworking and cared so deeply for Trinity Rep. He was a kind and truly decent man, the likes of which we can never replace. His presence at Trinity Rep will be missed.

  55. Katherine Niedzwiadek
    Feb 16, 2021

    I am so saddened to hear of Steve Lehrer’s passing. I always loved working my shifts with him. He was always kind and happy to lend a hand in any way he could. I am keeping Steve and his family in my thoughts.

  56. Jeremy Cutler
    Feb 16, 2021

    My condolences. As many have stated, Steve was a true gentleman. I knew Steve from our Sunday morning basketball games at the JCC, and he was as stout a competitor and generous a teammate as you could ask for. When he discovered that my wife was his colleague at Mt. Hope, he never failed to ask about her and others at the school. Rest in peace.

  57. Mike Daniels
    Feb 16, 2021

    Sending my deepest condolences to the Lehrer family. I worked with Steve for many years at Trinity Rep as well as Ocean State Theater, where he was beloved by everyone he worked with. He was one of the kindest men I’ve ever known. I miss him dearly.

  58. Desiree Clements
    Feb 16, 2021

    I am beyond saddened to hear of Steve’s passing. Sending my condolences to Freda and family.
    I worked with Uncle Steve (as we affectionately called him) for 14 years at Trinity Rep. We were a work family. Uncle Steve bringing the doughnuts for those early morning PDs. Always running the show with boundless energy (seriously…how did he do it?!) and pure professionalism. On a more personal note, Steve would email and check in on me periodically this past crazy year and I really appreciated that, probably more than he knew. I feel so sad but so grateful that we got to know each other. Rest In Peace, Uncle Steve. You were one of the best. ❤️

  59. Ann Marie DICKSON
    Feb 16, 2021

    I met Steve when I was an usher at Trinity Repertory Theatre and also at the Ocean State theatre on Jefferson Boulevard. He certainly impressed me as a man filled with energy and a man who liked to be of service – two very admirable qualities.
    I will keep him in my prayers, and I offer my condolences to the family at his premature passing.

  60. Eric Stein
    Feb 16, 2021

    Dear Freda and Family:

    I am so sorry to learn of Steve’s passing. I recall both of you were active in our Hope High School Class reunions and your efforts made those events so successful and sweet. Steve was a real impact player in so many arenas; he was smart, capable, generous, and an elegant human being. His loss will be felt by so many in the community. My sincere condolences to you all.

  61. Maria Caliri
    Feb 16, 2021

    As a longtime usher at Trinity, it just won’t be the same without Steve. He was so kind to all the volunteers – always ready with a smile and kind word. RIP, Steve.

  62. John O’Leary
    Feb 16, 2021

    Freda, Andrew, Stacey, Joanne and family,

    Please accept the condolences of the Ann and our family on the passing of Stephen. We are so sorry for your loss. We know his loss is so sudden and difficult to bear. May all the happy memories help to reduce the sorrow that you are now experiencing. Stephen has left a wonderful legacy in his family and career as a teacher. May God give you consolation at this sad time.

  63. mb rowland
    Feb 16, 2021

    My deepest sympathy to his family and friends. He is gone too soon. He will always be fondly remembered.

  64. Janice Okoomian
    Feb 16, 2021

    My husband and I have been ushering at Trinity Rep for many years and so we knew Steve over that long period of time. He was a very kind soul and I always enjoyed talking with him about the plays. My deepest sympathy to Steve’s family.

    • Betsy Weiner McNeil
      Feb 16, 2021

      Stephen and I went through school together, starting at Summit Avenue. I remember him as quite, kind and very, very smart. Years later, I was at Trinity with a class and I saw him for the first time in years. It was obvious that he loved what he was doing. I am sorry to learn that he has passed away. It is obvious from the tributes that his life, was a life well lived and that he left behind a giant footprint from his time on earth. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

  65. Jane Newberg
    Feb 16, 2021

    I had the pleasure of working with Steve as a bartender at Ocean State Theatre in Warwick. We worked the matinee shows on both Thursday and Sunday. He enjoyed working at the theatre. He loved to tell me how much he loved working every year at the camp in the Berkshires. Sending prayers to Steve’s family.

  66. James Sullivan
    Feb 16, 2021

    It usually takes a bit of time to get a true sense of how much integrity a person has. With Steve, it became clear very quickly.
    Kindness, honesty, loyalty,….and unbending integrity.
    Buvana and I so grateful to have gotten to know Steve through our ushering at Trinity, and he will always be a part of our very special memories there.
    God bless and comfort his family as they mourn his loss, and also as they celebrate his life.

  67. Pam Flavin
    Feb 16, 2021

    My heartfelt and deepest sympathy to Freda and family. His passing was a shock and much too soon! At Trinity and PPAC he was an inspiration in every way. So grateful for his kindness and the opportunity to work shifts occasionally at both theaters. Pray that God will bless you with peace and may happy memories help you in your time of sorrow.

  68. Bob Vigorita
    Feb 16, 2021

    When I got my breath back after reading this unexpected and unbelievable news this morning, I first recalled Steve graciously inviting me into a ballgame on Hope St. almost exactly half a century ago. He became my first and, later with the patient Freda, my best client. I’m going to miss talking sports, money and life with him. Sorry, Freda, Andrew and Stacey. You lost a terrific guy.

  69. Rhonda Brown
    Feb 16, 2021

    Freda, this so tragic. I never met Steve, but knowing you, he had to have been a wonderful husband and father. I am so very very sorry for your loss. May , in time, find peace

  70. Elinor Nacheman
    Feb 16, 2021

    I only met Steve three years ago when I started ushering at Trinity Rep. It was a pleasure to work with him and I can’t quite believe that he’s gone…it won’t be the same without him. My sincere condolences to all the Lehrer family at this sad time.

  71. Bruce Temkin
    Feb 16, 2021

    This is so sad. Steve was one of the nicest people I’ve ever known. I got to know Steve as a kid going to the JCC and then as a parent who’s kids went to Camp Taconic where he worked. He was always a great guy, in every circumstance. We lost a goon one. RIP Steve.

  72. Ann Hayes
    Feb 16, 2021

    So sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He will be missed by many including his Trinity family. Keeping you all in our thoughts.

  73. Sam and Lynn Resnick
    Feb 17, 2021

    We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Our deepest sympathies to Freda, Stacey, Andrew, Jia, Joann and Steve. You are in our thoughts and prayers. I look forward to the day when we can all be together and celebrate our fond memories.

  74. Mark Freedman
    Feb 17, 2021

    Freda,
    Our heartfelt condolences to you and all of your family on Stephen’s passing. Having known you for almost 60 years, I know how you always look for the best in people and Stephen was fortunate enough to have found you. Together you created a loving relationship and a beautiful family. I did not know Stephen well, but I always admired his calming attitude when things got tough.
    We will all miss him, but may his memory never fade from your hearts.

  75. Diana Young
    Feb 17, 2021

    I worked with Steve at Trinity Rep during my intern year. He was a kind and thoughtful man who was extremely dedicated to his community. I am sorry to hear of his passing.

  76. Karen Pigeon
    Feb 17, 2021

    I’m so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. I will miss his friend ship. He was always someone you could count on at Trinity. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered. Prayers for you and your family Freda.

  77. Karen Proule
    Feb 17, 2021

    I worked with Steve for many years at Trinity. He was always a gentleman who worked quietly, humbly, but always with a smile on his face. He could always be counted on to accommodate everyone and his dedication to Trinity was without fail. He is someone who left a deep impression on the hearts of many.

  78. Christine and Keith Mills
    Feb 17, 2021

    We are so sorry to learn about Stephen’s passing and express our deepest condolences to his wife, children, family, and friends.
    We met Stephen ~15 years ago while volunteering at Trinity Rep. He did a fine job overseeing the volunteer ushers, but more importantly he was a true gentleman who was always very kind and patient and we were fortunate to have known him.

  79. Harris Weiner
    Feb 17, 2021

    Steve and I go back to the old JCC. His quotes were the backbone of an article I wrote in 2019 on the history of JCC basketball which he embodied. Reconnecting with such a sincere, knowledgeable and gracious gentleman was a true pleasure. Please accept my condolences.

  80. James F Dumas
    Feb 17, 2021

    My partner and I have rented the property over in Bristol from the Lehrer and Stone families for our antique shop and dwelling upstairs, we have known Stephen and Freda for about 28 years now and are so profoundly saddened over Stephen’s passing. We will surely miss our yearly luncheons over at Quito’s Seafood restaurant with Stephen and Freda. They are a wonderful couple and we send our deepest condolences to Freda and the family.
    Most Sincerely,
    Jim & Jesse…..

  81. Nancy Sharoni
    Feb 17, 2021

    Gali, Tami and I feel very fortunate to have been a part of Steve’s Taconic family. He’ll be remembered for his genuine kind soul. He was one of the most considerate people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with and being friends with. Freda, Stacey, Andrew, Jia, Sophie – through you, he lives on. All my love

  82. Michelle Cruz
    Feb 17, 2021

    I am so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. He was such a kind man and I loved seeing him at work at Trinity Rep. You could see the pride he displayed during his time there, especially with the school field trip program, Project Discovery. A true gentleman who will be missed. RIP

  83. Carol Drewes
    Feb 17, 2021

    I worked at Trinity Rep for nearly 8 years and Steve was one of the most reliable, helpful members of front-of-house team. He made everyone feel welcome, whether you were a newbie or a long-time subscriber and donor. When bringing donors to observe a student matinee he always found a way to get us seated amidst the chaos as busloads of students entered the theater. On many occasions I’d stand at the back of the theater or on the edge of the stage and notice Steve, constantly in motion. I loved watching him work–so focused but also so kind. My heart goes out to his family and friends who knew him outside of Trinity Rep, where he will be fondly remembered, and missed.

  84. Margaret Richmond
    Feb 18, 2021

    Freda and Family,
    I am sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved Stephen. You will be in our prayers during this difficult time.

  85. Robert E. Lehrer
    Feb 18, 2021

    Freda. Bob Lehrer here, one of Stephen’s four first cousins on his dad Saul’s side, all of whom, including me, have been out of touch with him and, alas, your and his estimable family for decades. (The reasons for this separation are not easily explained and are inexcusable). I was so sorry to learn of Stephen’s very recent passing, how I learned of it attesting that, our long separation notwithstanding, I thought of him not infrequently and always well. Always well because I now understand, as I did not in the years in which we had an ongoing, if not close, relationship (until roughly 1963, when Stephen was 14 and I was 18) that Stephen already exhibited the grace, and, in light of his dad’s death at such an early age, resilience that, as adjudged from the many comments above, later came to characterize his adult life. Those comments, from close and significantly not so so close work, theater, and camp colleagues, from basketball teammates, from your and his social friends, even from parents of students whom Stephen had taught long ago, all attesting to the same qualities: kindliness, warmth, humor, compassion, helpfulness–in short, grace. For you, for your and Stephen’s two children, Andrew and Stacey, their partners, for Joann and her partner, for your grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and Stephen’s many friends, may his memory be for a blessing. Warmest embraces to all. Bob (relehrer1@gmail.com).

  86. Rod and Gail Henderson
    Feb 18, 2021

    Freda,
    Gail and I were so very sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Our prayers go out to you and your family in this sad time.

  87. Brother Roy Pinette
    Feb 18, 2021

    Dear Freda and family,
    So sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing recently. What a wonderful man – a very special person to many! I got to know him in my duties as an usher at Trinity for many years. He was always so helpful in every way – both in person and through emails concerning ushering duties for the different shows.
    My prayers and sympathy during this most difficult time of loss.

  88. Pat Garganese
    Feb 18, 2021

    Joanne and family. My sincere condolences.

  89. David Miller
    Feb 18, 2021

    My sincere condolences for your loss. We had met during my years at Hope and had met again after during our reunions!

  90. Harriet & Howie Wasser
    Feb 20, 2021

    Freda

    We were so sorry to hear of Stephen’s passing. We remember seeing your family at Touro’s Chinese dinners enjoying dinner with your family. I would always see Stephen at Ocean State Theatre Company. He seemed so happy to be helping the patrons. A very calm and pleasant man!

    Our condolences to your family.

  91. Barbara Furtado
    Feb 20, 2021

    My condolences to your family. I met Steve many years ago through the RITTI training. He was so patient and kind as a teacher/leader, especially to those like me who were tech-challenged. Years letter when I had a technology question or problem and posted it to the RIDE website, Steve was often the first to respond with a solution, no matter what time of day or night.

  92. Kati-Jane Childs
    Feb 21, 2021

    Sending condolences to your family. I met Steve when I was in my last year of law school at BU. I was living in Providence and commuting to Boston for school. I reached out about ushering at Trinity, and Steve was so welcoming and encouraging. He told me that his son and daughter-in-law had done the same thing, and so he knew how hard it was to make that commute for school. Just a wonderful, pleasant man who will be missed by all who knew him.

  93. Shawn S. Foti
    Feb 27, 2021

    To your entire family. Mr. Lehrer was one of my absolute favorite high school teachers (1991-1995). He made advanced algebra and calculus “enjoyable” to a high school kid! He really encouraged his students. A rare gift in most public high schools. Wonderful mentor and educator. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.

    Kaddish

    Shawn Foti

  94. Michael A Bharier
    Apr 1, 2021

    I heard of Steve’s passing with great sadness. He was a kind and special individual, who was taken from us too young. My feelings and condolences go out to Freda and all his family. May the Almighty comfort you. Baruch Dayan Emet.

  95. PattyGold
    May 3, 2021

    Steve was a wonderful person who is missed…a hard worker, a helper and very insightful.

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