| Stephen C. Marcham | ||
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"Steve Marcham was an exceptional person whose demeanor allowed him to be an effective, strong force for Vernon as well as his profession. Having served as Vernon Councilor and Democratic Majority Leader during his leadership as Vernon's Mayor, it was my good fortunate to be part of an administration that cared deeply for doing what was in the best interests of our town and our people. Steve's passion for our town is reflected throughout his 28 years of public service as a member of the Board of Education, Councilor, Mayor Pro Tempore, Vernon Mayor, President and member of the Rockville Downtown Association. Steve's passion for the revitalization of downtown Rockville is evident in the countless contributions he has made to make our town a better place many generations to enjoy. I will always remember his enthusiastic, can-do leadership approach and his wonderful sense of humor.
It
is a great loss for our town and his presence will be sorely
missed. My deepest sympathy goes out to Steve's family,
friends and all those who had the opportunity to know him."
Claire
Janowski
State
Representative
Vernon
& Rockville
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“You
have read the memorials concerning Steve Marcham’s public
service and dedication to Vernonites
should know some other things about Steve. He was full of
vitality as the Mayor. Appearing at store openings and
meetings as many Mayor’s do, but when he did he brought true
enthusiasm for the venture. He did not just “cut (the
ribbon) and run. He was happy to have a new business in
town. He engaged the new owners, desirous of their success
in our community. When
dealing with the Town’s employees he was even handed and showed
respect for their job and position. The lowest employee
treated as fairly as the highest. When he
led a Town Council meeting, he exuded a confidence that good
decisions are going to be made, no matter which side of the table
you sat on. He stayed
level headed, not engaging in the raucous argument that sometimes
occurred. He would disagree with his own party members when
he knew the matter would not benefit When asked
he provided excellent counsel. When he thought, we were
moving in the wrong direction he would attempt to steer us on the
correct path and do it in his own non-confrontational style. This kind
of leadership is special and when you saw him in action, you knew
it. Moreover, try as you might you cannot duplicate it by
watching him. It is inborn and innate. Something in
his makeup made him the special person he was. Vernon
Residents will miss him greatly. There is no one like him
now and there might not be for a long time to come. We miss
you Steve. May you rest in peace and may God bless your
soul.” Brian Motola |
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Steve was a respected and informed citizen of our Town He believed that each of us has a responsibility to give back something to the Town in which we live. For years he did just that in many capacities. As one lines up the pillars of those who helped Vernon-Rockville grow Steve Marcham 's name stands out bright and clear. Marie Herbst |
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To view and sign his online guestbook : http://www.legacy.com/HartfordCourant/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=125291978
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A mayor for all seasons
Journal Inquirer Editorial
Steve Marcham, who died last week, too young at 60, was one of
the quiet leaders of our state and perhaps Vernon’s greatest leader
— he served his community, he took care of his family, he ran a
solid business that was based on helping people.
He did it all without fanfare.
He was twice Vernon’s mayor, and served with distinction.
Marcham found a way to avoid acrimony and partisanship. He was not a partisan, but a pragmatist And he didn’t hold grudges. Local politics can be vicious. Marcham made it noble, as it should be. That was his nature. But also his game plan. He didn’t want higher office. Or even the credit. He only wanted progress for the town. Politics was not about ego for him. It was about service. Roughly 10 years ago there was a Christmas carol sing in front of Town Hall. The night was cold. About six people showed up. One was the mayor — Steve Marcham. He didn’t make a speech or shake hands. He shivered, sang, and drove home. Someone said, “It’s nice to have a mayor like that.” He retired from the mayor’s office because of time constraints. But he continued to serve. He got involved in the Rockville Downtown Association, and worked on reviving the small businesses and storefront facades in Rockville. He organized the Rockville “a cappella slams,” which were a great success. He was a driving force, or a key ally, in almost every downtown festival or special event of the past 25 years. The rebuilding of Vernon Town Hall — a beautiful piece of architecture inside, which has now been restored and is still unknown to many — will be his memorial. As owner and pharmacist at Vincent’s Pharmacy, it was in his enlightened self-interest to boost Rockville. But Steve Marcham took enlightenment to mean service — in all senses of the word. As a pharmacist he tried to give good customer service, of course, but also to be a friend and adviser. Vernon was lucky to have him — as neighbor, merchant, and mayor. The recent death of the beautiful actress Natasha Richardson has captured the nation’s attention. A bump on the head and it’s over at 45. Is life really so short and fragile? Yes, it is. It’s important to do something with it — “Light a candle in the darkness, so others might see ahead. Light a candle in the darkness when you go.” Steve Marcham lit several.
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