William Steinberg

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Steinberg of Wayland, MA, on July 25, 2024, from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.  He died peacefully at his family’s vacation home in York Harbor, Maine, overlooking the mouth of the York River, surrounded by family.  Born in Boston, MA. on January 10, 1955, Bill grew up in Newton, where he met his beloved wife, Kathleen “Kathie” Ryan Steinberg.  The couple cherished 45 years of marriage, filled with simple joys and shared endeavors.

Bill’s family was the center of his world.  Bill was a loving father to his three daughters and their families:  Sara Steinberg and Scott McCarthy (Needham, MA); Katie Steinberg and Dale Hoyt (Jackson, WY); and Rachel Steinberg and Carter Frank (Arlington, VA).  His most treasured connections were his bonds with his six grandchildren:  Lauren, Brayden, Elle, Hudson, Myles and Cameron.   He was fully engaged in their interests and activities that ranged from building air hangers, polishing nails, watching Paw Patrol, doing puzzles, to attending soccer games and ballet recitals.  He spent his final weeks in appreciation of the magical moments with them, filled with such joy and gratitude.   Bill’s kind and patient nature made him a cherished figure not only with his grandchildren and extended family but also among his friends, neighbors, and colleagues.

Bill graduated from Newton High School before pursuing higher education at Amherst College and Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Business.  Bill had a distinguished career in commercial real estate and was known for his strategic acumen and compassionate leadership.    He lived by his motto, “We love our tenants!” and valued the many strong and lasting friendships he made over the years.  From his early days in Phoenix as a leasing agent for Trammell Crow, to his role as an Acquisition Officer for Prologis (formerly AMB), to his entrepreneurial endeavor founding Saxe Investments to his success at Chestnut Realty where he established, managed, and significantly grew the real estate investment portfolio that supported the philanthropic work of the Davis Family Foundation.   Bill’s professional life was marked by his integrity and kindness and the lasting relationships he forged within the real estate community.  

Bill’s passions extended beyond his career.  An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed biking, kayaking, fly-fishing, and hiking, with over a dozen hikes through the Grand Canyon. His vegetable garden was a testament to his patience and dedication, flourishing under his care.  Additionally, Bill was an excellent cook, and his culinary experiments with sauces and marinades were sources of great pride and joy, delighting family and friends with his flavorful creations.

Bill was a beloved figure in his community.  He was deeply committed to his hometown of Wayland, actively participating on several town boards and committees, including the Planning Board, Economic Development, and the town’s Finance Committee.  He was generous with his time and always maintained a positive outlook and sense of humor on all things municipal.  

Bill is survived by his wife, daughters, sons-in-law and six grandchildren; brother, Robert Steinberg (Marshall, CA); sister, Jane Steinberg and her husband Elliot (Los Angeles, CA); sisters- and brothers-in law Amy Ryan and Dick Bachelder (York, ME), Beth Walter (York, ME), Tom Ryan and Maribeth Hourihan (Falmouth, ME), Paula and Paul Feinman (Lynchburg, VA) and Jennifer and Doug Brown (Sherborn, MA); and many nieces, nephews, cousins and cousins-in-law of his extended family.  They will remember his calm and caring manner and his cheerful and optimistic outlook on life.

A private cremation service has been held.  A celebration of Bill’s life will take place on Thursday, August 22,2024 from 11AM – 2 PM at Brae Burn Country Club in West Newton, MA (with stories of remembrances beginning at noon).  Brae Burn dress code does not allow denim (no denim pants, shirts, jackets, etc.), but guests are encouraged to wear colorful outdoor attire, including hiking boots and Patagonia gear.  

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s honor to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Lymphoma Research.  Donations can be sent to 10 Brookline Place West, Brookline, MA 02445 or online at Dana-Farber.org/gift.

The Lucas and Eaton Funeral Home in York, Maine assisted the family with arrangements.  Bill’s legacy of kindness, dedication and adventurous spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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