Everett Stedman

Everett E. Stedman passed away peacefully on December 6, 2016, he had just celebrated his 90th birthday October 25. He is survived by loving family, friends and a bicycle community that will never forget him. Everett was the valedictorian of his graduating class, a Veteran of WWII, a boater, gardener, and photographer, but most of you will remember him an icon on Main Street. There are not many locals that have not had the pleasure of meeting Everett. W.E. Stedman Co. has been a fixture on Main Street for almost 100 years, Originally owned by his father William Stedman “Bicycle Bill” Everett took over the shop in the 50's, over time his friend, business partner “son” James P. Walsh has helped the store evolve. Many changes have occurred from penny candy, gas pumps, and Schwinn bikes to the Fat Bikes (which Everett couldn't understand the need for). However, some things will never change the sign in the window that reads “Buy him or her a bicycle for Christmas” and the memories, if it was just to fix a flat, put a chain back on, or he sold you your first bike. He was attentive to his customers and had a unique ability to recall the details relating to almost every bike he sold. It was a bit of a past time for him to share his memories with his customers, he often would even share memories he had of your family when he was a kid surprising you with the connections he could make. He enjoyed watching these kids grow up and return with their children to the store. Everett rode his bike for miles, he would take off and think nothing of putting 30 miles in on a Sunday ride. For those who spent a little more time with him you'll always remember a few of his favorite phrases, “to much traffic” - he didn't like the traffic it interfered with his bicycling; he never understood the reason why everyone had to be in such a rush he always took his time with everything, getting to know his customers, sharing his knowledge, or taking in the view on the way home for lunch. - “what's the commotion”, “Don't you know anything” “I'm a vegetarian, I eat vegetables”. Everyone who knew Everett knew that you always had a place in the store and his memory; Everett you will always have a place in our hearts and memories. -Ride on Everett- A private funeral service will be held at the Veterans Cemetery. A Celebration of life will follow after the holidays. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children – online at www.schrinershospitalsforchildren.org or by mail to 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive Tampa Florida 33607