Rotary Club

The St. Stephen/Milltown Rotary Club is mourning the unexpected loss of its president.

The organization announced earlier this week that Steve Loates passed suddenly.

Self-described as unemployable, Loates began his career at the Toronto Star before building a series of businesses.

They ranged from piano sales to an online harmonica store followed by web design and consulting firms.

According to his obituary, Loates loved building things.

“Not only businesses, but ideas, strategies, systems, and possibilities,” the obit reads.

“He had an extraordinary ability to cut directly to the heart of a problem by asking the right questions, simplifying the noise, and helping people see things clearly. People sought him out not just because he was intelligent, but because he was steady. Logical. Thoughtful. The calm voice in the middle of chaos.”

About five years ago, Loates and his wife moved just outside St. Andrews to fulfil a dream of living by the ocean.

Two days before his passing, he became a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, an honour reflecting his dedication to service and community.

He is survived by his wife Juliet and daughter Siera.

A private family cremation will take place, with a celebration of life to be held in the coming months.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rotary Club of St. Stephen/Milltown or Boxer Rescue Ontario.