Stephen S. Halsey ’50

Steve died April 22, 2014, in Portland, Ore., of bone cancer.

After graduating from St. Mark’s and spending a year in the Navy, he entered Princeton with his cousin, Charles, following the family heritage, which included his father (1918), uncle ’21, and stepbrother ’45. He majored in economics, rowed crew for four years, and was treasurer of Ivy.

Following graduation, Steve began a career with the American Express Co. and ultimately became president of the American Express Foundation, which funded conservation and restoration projects in New York City and around the world. He retired in 1997, living first in Hawaii and then in Portland.

He was passionately committed to the ecological preservation of landmarks and historical sites, and was a leading advocate of tourism for broadening cultural understanding. An organization devoted to promoting New York’s diversity named him a “Living Treasure” for his contributions to the city’s cultural life.

Steve had a gracious manner and an interest in people. At 6 feet 4 inches tall, he was known as the “Gentle Giant.” He enjoyed regaling listeners with tales of his travels and adventures.

Our sympathy goes to “Lutie” (Louise Elizabeth), his wife of 44 years; his children, Alexandra ’78 and Nicholas; his brother, Cortland; and six grandchildren.