Hess, Steven Fredrick, 61, passed away on December 10, 2014, after a brief struggle with cancer. Steve was born in Lansing, Michigan, on July 5, 1953, to Joan and George Hess. The oldest of four children, Steve's passion for electronics and technology was evident even during his early school years as an audio-visual student volunteer. He began his career in broadcast engineering at WJIM-TV in Lansing, moving to Detroit in 1978 to work in cable TV programming and production, as well as at WXON-TV. The lure of warm weather and a challenging opportunity at USA Broadcasting Company brought him to Tampa Bay in 1987, where he supervised construction of Silver King Broadcasting stations in Tampa, Miami and St. Louis, MO. He later joined Sinclair Broadcasting Company at WTTA-TV, and most recently, was Chief Engineer for Univision Communications at WFTT in Tampa. Steve was current Chairman for the Tampa Bay Chapter of the Society of Broadcast Engineers.

A voracious reader and lifelong learner, Steve was exceptionally articulate and willing to share his point of view on just about any subject. He was also kind and generous, taking immense pleasure in assisting his more technically-challenged family and friends whenever possible. Steve will be remembered by those who knew him as a man of integrity, humility, and strong character. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Janet; two daughters, Hayley, 21, and Maddie, 17; brothers Bob Hess (Marilyn) of Dorr, MI, and Chuck Hess (Sonia) of Kissimmee; sister Debbie Eder (Joe) of Clearwater; and a large extended family.

A memorial service and reception will be held on Tuesday, December 23, at 11 AM at Lake Magdalene United Methodist Church, 2902 West Fletcher Ave., Tampa 33618. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Steve's life are invited to make a donation to Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation at https://foundation.flcancer.com/donate, 5202 Paylor Lane, Sarasota, FL 34240, (941) 677-7181.