GREENE – Steven L. Amell, 60, of Greene, passed away peacefully at home on March 20, 2012, surrounded by his loving family.
Steve fought a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). He was so thankful for his family and doctors who took care of him. His positive mental attitude was an inspiration to us all. Steve was a lector at the Immaculate Conception Church in Greene for 30 years. Steve’s faith was very special to him and he is now on his next journey to spend his life with our Lord.
Steve is survived by his loving wife Nancy of 37 years, and their sons Jason and Shannon; and Jeffrey and Jessica. He was so proud of his family and his love was always there to help and encourage them. His pride and joy were his four beautiful grandchildren: Ella, Addy, Elias and Lauren. A new baby will join his family in August.
Steve is also survived by his mother, Mary Amell and his sisters and brothers: Catherine (Kitty) and James Heiser; Susan and Rich Davis; Fred and Nancy Amell; James and Barbara Amell; a special sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kathy and George Estey and father-in-law, Thomas Nixon. Steve was blessed with many cousins, nieces, nephews and friendships he made in his life.
Steve was predeceased by his father, Clifford, his brother, David Amell and by mother-in-law, Janice Nixon.
Steve was well respected in the community. He spent his life helping others reach their dreams and received joy from their success. He worked 30 years in banking in Chenango, Otsego and Broome counties. During that time, he was involved in many organizations, committees, on boards and taught classes at BCC and SUNY Oneonta. Steve had the privilege of meeting many individuals of different walks who touched his life in numerous ways. All of Steve’s knowledge and skills lead the way to his ultimate dream of owning a business. With the help of great partners, Steve’s dream came true on Oct. 9, 2003 with the opening of Enviren Calibrations. Steve’s love for the business and his natural ability to coach and mentor people in becoming great entrepreneurs, lead to a new career opportunity with the Broome County Small Business Development Center.
Steve worked at this job advising others in their success up until November 2011. The affects of ALS soon made it difficult for Steve to talk and use the computer. His body did not allow him to continue to work, but his passion and commitment to his family, friends and clients never waivered. All of Steve’s work opportunities and his involvement in the community allowed Steve to make lasting friendships.
Although Steve is no longer with us, his legacy will continue and Amell’s Army will march on and continue to support and help find a cure for ALS.
A funeral mass will be offered 1 p.m. on Saturday at Immaculate Conception Church in Greene. Burial will be in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery, Greene. Friends of the family may call Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Greene.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to ALS Association Upstate New York Chapter, 890 Seventh North Street, Suite 108, Liverpool, NY 13088 or Chenango Hospice, 21 Hayes Street, Norwich, NY 13815.
Arrangements are under direction of Root Funeral Home, 23 N. Chenango Street, Greene, NY 13778 and condolences may be sent to the family at www.rootfh.com.