Conesus Lake: At age 85, Steve passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2019 at his home on Conesus Lake, where he lived since 1968. Steve was born in Syracuse, NY to the late Alfred L. Kronquest and Viva Kronquest. He is survived by his children, Erik Kronquest of Seattle, WA; Stacey Kronquest of Savannah, GA.; and his grandchildren: Jacqualyn Kronquest Ellis, Drew Ellis, and Quinn Erikson Kronquest.
Steve’s collaborative and competitive spirit served him well in his broadcasting career. He started out in radio sales at WHEC in 1958, eventually becoming the television station’s senior vice president and general manager. In 1984, he became the general manager of WIXT-TV in Syracuse. Steve was creative and principled, both a numbers guy and a wordsmith, and under his leadership both television stations became community and news leaders.
After retiring in 1995, Steve took to the sky, flying powered aircraft and sailplanes. He loved Upstate New York’s wilderness, too, hiking the trails throughout the Finger Lakes, his dog by his side. A natural storyteller, Steve shot his way out of Cuba during the revolution and derived his love of the outdoors from his Native American grandfather. He thought anything was possible, eternally an optimist.
In keeping with Steve’s wishes there will be no formal services. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Sad that Steve is gone. We enjoyed seeing him regularly for the 3rd of July Ring of Fire parties he held at his Conesus Lake house every year. We fondly remember the early Steve who told great stories when we had family picnics at Conesus Lake. Such good times: talking with Steve, swimming out to the float and diving off the high platform, the fishing contests off the float, kayaking in the area, and playing fetch with Steve’s beloved dog Shala – and, of course, the bon fire and the lighting of the flares. We had great times together and we miss him already, but will always have those memories. Love to Eric and Stacey, Jacqueline, Drew and Quinn.
Doug, Barbara, and Chetta
My sincere sympathies are with you, Stacey and Erik. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
I’m so saddened to learn of your dad’s passing, Stacy and Eric. Conesus Lake won’t be the same. I always loved his passion for the lake, visiting him when I’d run into him on Eagle Point walking his beloved dog, and of course getting to know him in the years babysitting you two. Steve always had time to listen and care. My deepest sympathy!
We miss him already! So many memories of our years of living on Eagle Point. Susan and Joe Patton
Steve was my first GM here at NewsChannel 9 in Syracuse when I joined the station in late 1984. He supported and encouraged me every step of the way. Steve was always in my corner and had my back, even in the times when I know I let him down. I will never forget his patience, kindness and the way he made everybody feel like their contributions made a difference as he built this TV station into something special. That’s because Steve was someone special. My prayers for his family. Please know Steve leaves a lasting legacy among those fortunate enough to have worked with him here in Syracuse.
Saddest condolences Eric and Stacey, your dad was kind and insightful, I often reflect on our deep conversations.
So sorry to hear about Steve’s passing. In Syracuse, he took a basement dweller (both in the ratings and in physical presence) and built an enduring powerhouse. He knew what viewers wanted, hired the talent that could deliver it, and established a solid presence in the community. Along the way, he treated co-workers with kindness and encouragement. He will be missed.
May I add my condolences to the family of Steve Kronquest. I worked with him at WHEC-TV in the early 1980’s and we remember him fondly.
Janet Lomax