Good-bye to a kind and decent man, Steven Calabrese

I have to put something out there to express my deep sadness that Steve Calabrese, a local conservative political activist, passed away last night of a heart attack. He was only 41 years old and leaves behind a wife and two children. Our hearts go out to them at this time.

I had known Steve a little bit over the past few years through common political activities. He was highly intelligent, kind, and when he got into political debates, he was fair and didn't attack people personally. He was one of the brightest writers, very articulate. He was sort of the "voice of reason" on Sonoran Alliance, the one person you could count on to chime in and make sense of everything, bring people together with a well-reasoned argument. He was a wonderful Christian and a good example to everyone. I've never heard anyone say anything negative about him ever. Most of us can only hope to have that reputation! He was one of the truly decent people you encounter and are proud to call your friend.

Steve was a close friend of my boyfriend Brian Symes the past 9 years. Due to their friendship, Steve took pity on me recently over the State Bar's political prosecution of me and looked into the facts. He was a stalwart defender of mine on the blogs over the past few weeks after he determined that the investigation was not justified. I lost my own brother a couple of years ago at the same age of 41. I understand all too well how heart wrenching and difficult it is to lose someone so young.

I will miss his courageous support. It meant a lot. RIP Steve. Brian and I will miss you.

Sonoran Alliance post about Steve