John Wilson Steffe, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 6, 2016. Born in Baltimore, Md., he was the son of the late Mary Katherine Wilhelm Steffe and John Wesley Steffe. Wilson served in the U.S. Army in the Philippines as a pharmacy technician, which sparked his interest in pharmacy. After discharge from the military, he attended The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy graduating in 1952. He worked in retail pharmacy for 58 years at Gray’s Pharmacy, Bayside Pharmacy and later Rite Aid Pharmacy.
Wilson was an active member of Lynnhaven United Methodist Church. He was formerly a member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Norfolk, and their Wesleymen Bible Class. He was an avid gardener; his meticulously manicured yard brought pleasure to friends, neighbors and family. He was a sports fan, who cheered on the Baltimore Orioles, Baltimore Colts and then Ravens, and Duke basketball. One of his grandsons described him as a man of few words who was incredibly selfless, friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand. Thus, Wilson is remembered as a man who cherished and devoted himself to his family.
Left to honor his memory is his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara Anne Tatem Steffe; a sister, Jean Steffe Kreiling (Dave); a son, John Wilson ‘Jack’ Steffe Jr. (Lee Anne); two daughters, Susan Krudop (Don) and Mary Virginia Enos; seven grandchildren, Jan Coerper (Jeremy), Will Steffe, Kemper Steffe (Natalie), James Krudop, Marc Krudop, Brent Enos and Carl Enos; and one great-granddaughter, Rose Coerper. He also leaves behind many other beloved family members and friends.
A memorial service will be conducted at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, at Lynnhaven United Methodist Church, 1033 Little Neck Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23452, with the Rev. Ronnie Morris officiating. A reception will follow in the church welcome center. Private burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society or Lynnhaven United Methodist Church, Children’s Division.
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