Stephen Emil Sternfield

Stephen Emil Sternfield, age 70, of St. Augustine, FL passed away on July 7, 2023 at his home in the Coquina Crossing community. Stephen was born on January 22, 1953 in Washington, DC to parents Hilda Louise and Lawrence Melvin Sternfield. He grew up in several latin american countries including Brazil, Peru, and Chile, where his father was serving as a diplomat for the US Government. He moved back to the States with his family in his early teens, living in Arlington, Virginia. After high school Steve was attended the University of Florida, then transferred to FIU where he earned a BA in International Relations, and also made some lifelong friendships. After graduating he went to work for United Way, and met his future wife Cindy Stake. They married in June of 1984, and moved to North Palm Beach, FL where he lived much of his adult life. Using the language skills that he learned living in South America, he became a successful importer / exporter of produce. More than anything, Steve was a dedicated family man, raising two children, Jay and Marisa, with his wife Cindy, who preceded him in death by 15 years. Steve was very sociable and charismatic, and he loved sharing stories of his life and enjoying a good time with friends and family. In the last ten years Steve was a devoted grandfather (Poopah) to his only grandson Dax. They enjoyed swapping stories and playing chess together. He was also very involved in Dax’s athletics and academic career. He was an avid numismatist and loved to share and educate his grandson on foreign money. He was also a collector of art, stamps, and many other things. Steve enjoyed all forms of music, throughout his life he played piano, drums, and the harmonica, to name a few. He imparted his natural talents and love for music on his children and grandson. His favorite genre of music was classic rock, which he often enjoyed “jamming out” to with his daughter and son-in-law regularly in their home. Steve was “damn proud” of his son Jay's scholastic achievements and successful career, and they always enjoyed watching and discussing sports together. He was a joker, a smoker, and a midnight toker. His vibrant and witty personality, playful sense of humor, and loving heart will be forever remembered and cherished by his family and friends. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Hilda and Lawrence Sternfield; a brother, Gary Campbell; and his wife Cindy Sternfield. Stephen is survived by a nephew Adrien Campbell; a son, Jay Sternfield of Oviedo, FL; a daughter, Marisa Arber, her husband Kyle, and their son Dax Arber of St. Augustine. Private services will be held. St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Stephen Emil Sternfield

January 22, 1953 - July 7, 2023