Steven F. Conrad, who died last week in Valdosta, Ga., at 87, was not a native of Chattanooga, but a Chattanoogan by choice. His decision to live and work here was a boon to the community he was proud to call home. His willingness to serve fellow residents, his progressive outlook and his unflinching commitment to fairness and equality were the hallmarks of a life worthy of remembrance and emulation.
Conrad, a native of New York and a decorated veteran of the tough fighting in the Pacific Theater during World War II, came to Chattanooga to work at WDEF-TV. As news director and anchor there, he quickly became a community fixture, known for civic service as well as his professional achievements.
Given his willingness to serve and his concern for the community, it was a natural progression for Conrad to move from broadcasting to public service. His campaign to become Chattanooga's commissioner of public utilities was successful, and he quickly put his stamp on the office and on the city.
Chattanooga changed perceptibly during his time as commissioner. Under his direction, the number of parks, recreation centers, tennis courts and summer and beautification programs mushroomed. At a time of social unrest, he was a voice of calm and reason, urging residents to work with political, civic and religious leaders to build friendships and relationships that would help make the city stronger and more attractive.
Conrad served Hamilton County government, as well. His tenure as registrar of the Election Commission was marked by a calm that belied the sometimes stormy upheavals that were part of a changing political scene here. He fulfilled the duties of his office in a principled manner, earning praise for his fairness, efficiency and unflappability from those of all political views.
That demeanor was notable, as well, in other endeavors. Conrad was active in many civic and community groups. He was a communicant of the Lutheran Church of the Ascension and served as lay assistant to the pastors there for almost three decades. And despite his involvement in so many activities, Conrad was extraordinarily devoted to his family -- Marian, his wife of 62 years, a son and daughter, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Conrad was a man of many interests and multiple talents for whom public service was an integral part of life. Though Conrad's loss will be felt most intensely by his family, the community he served lovingly and well should remember him with both respect and appreciation.