Steven Edwin (Steve/Somie) Somerlot passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, December 8, 2010 at his residence.
A lifelong resident of Marion, Steve was born July 14, 1949 to the late Starling E. & Ethel M. (Bellinger-Ruff) Somerlot.
He was a 1967 graduate of Marion Harding High School.
Steve was presently employed by Marion Community Radio, 97.5 WDCM and had worked in radio marketing for many years, previously with WDIF. He also had brief stints in banking, car sales and with the Red Cross.
Steve will be most remembered for his volunteer work in the Marion area starting at age 17 by managing a Little League baseball team and as secretary of Marion Baseball for Youth. He then helped establish the Marion Midget Football program, serving as a board member as its first treasurer.
Somerlot was very active in the Marion Popcorn Festival starting as a parade marshal and then parade chairman. He was a board member for many years and was Festival Director from 1988-1990 and President in 1999 and 2000. He currently served on the Advisory Board and Entertainment Committee.
Somerlot's most rewarding work came as Chairman of the old WDIF Cancer Stereothon back in the 80's and 90's. In his 12 year involvement, he helped raise over one million dollars for the American Cancer Society. He took his idea from the Stereothon and founded the Red Cross Radiothon.
Steve was past President of the Y-Men's Service Club and the Marion Sales Ad Club and had served as Vice President of the Boys & Girls Club of Marion. He was also an original member of the Ambassador's for the Chamber of Commerce and was recognized by the Chamber for his volunteer work in 1988.
Somerlot was also recognized in 1986 and 1988 with Distinguished Citizen Awards.
Somerlot currently served on the Popcarn Festival Advisory Board and on the Marion Township Zoning Commission.
Along with his parents, Steve was preceded in death by brothers Dr. Warren A. Somerlot and Gary E. Somerlot as well as a sister, who died in infancy, Barbara Jean.
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Jean Somerlot of Marietta, Georgia as well as nieces and nephews, Allen Somerlot, Karen (Brad) Somerlot-Raymer and Matt (Ruthie) Somerlot of Georgia, Susan (Simon) Somerlot-Morrish of Ausralia, Mike Somerlot of Florida and Dawn (Jeff) Vaflor of Dayton. Steve is also survived by many great nephews, nieces, cousins and special cousin Ellen Pratt-McKirgan. He is also survived by the countless number of people he considered friends.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, December 19, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at the Boler Activity Center, 590 Forest Lawn Boulevard. Steve's Life long friend, Pastor Willie McGary will be officiating. Family and friends will be invited to share a brief personal memory and also socialize after the service.
Gunder/Hall & Folk Funeral Directors are handling arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the donors choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gunderhallandfolk.com.
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