Obituary of Peter C. Steve

"Leverett- Peter C. Steve, 74, of Depot Road, died suddenly Thursday, January 11 at home. Born in Woonsocket, RI, he was the son of the late Christy and Anastasia (Geanacou) Steve and was a graduate of Woonsocket High School. In 1953 he received his BS from the University of Rhode Island in Agriculture and Biological Sciences and began his graduate studies in Entomology there. He completed his MS in Science in 1959 at the University of Massachusetts, furthering his studies in entomology to accomplish his PhD in 1965, also from UMASS. Peter worked at the Eastern States Farmers Exchange (now AGWAY) as a researcher and field representative in the Biological Product Department. He later worked as a field representative in Entomology for the Geigy Agricultural Chemical Co. Briefly teaching at UMASS, he concluded his teaching career in Natural Science, Land Use, Ecology and Chemistry at the Greenfield Community College. Peter had a variety of interests, among them he was an avid reader, enjoyed oil painting and collecting art and antiques. He was a member of the Rockport Art Assoc., North Shore Arts Assoc., Early American Industries Assoc., and was also a member of International Cockshutt Club (antique tractors). Peter was a member of Sigma Xi and an honorary member of the Pioneer Valley Kennel Club. Mr. Steve was stationed in Manhattan as an Insect Identification & Control Specialist, US Army Medical Corps from 1953-1955. He was discharged in 1961. On June 30, 1958 he was married to Judith Knowles, who survives him. He is also survived by his son Gregory C. and his wife Kathryn A. (Dihlmann) of Shutesbury, along with a brother Steve C. Steve and sister Ida Tegovich both of Woonsocket, RI. Peter was predeceased by his sister Flora A. Steve and brother James (Gus) C. Steve. He also leaves his two grandchildren Jacob C. and Kaitlyn J. Calling hours will be Monday, January 15 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home, 10 Maple St., (Rte. 202). A funeral service will be at the funeral home on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in E. Leverett Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Leverett Firefighters Assoc., Leverett, MA 01054 or the Salvation Army. "