Steve Elario, Northrop & Johnson charter and sales broker, has died following a lengthy career in the yachting industry.
Originally from Newburyport, Massachusetts, Steve made his way to Florida in the early 80s, following his love of life on the water.
He found the yachting industry and jumped in, starting as a deckhand in 1979 and quickly working his way up to captain on yachts ranging in size from 80 to 200 feet.
During his career afloat, he travelled extensively before moving ashore in 1999 to be closer to family and serve clients as a broker.
He joined the International Yacht Collection in 2000, based in Fort Lauderdale, a position he held for nine years before moving onto Sapphire Seas in 2009.
Steve’s optimism and genuine care for others were constants, both in and out of the office.
Northrop & Johnson
In 2011 Steve joined Y.CO and in 2017 took on the role of charter and sales broker with Northrop & Johnson USA.
In a statement Northrop & Johnson said Steve was a longtime colleague and friend who would be greatly missed.
“Steve was a well-respected charter and sales broker with decades of experience and was a beloved presence in our industry,” said the statement.
“His professional knowledge ran deep, but more than that, so did his kindness.”
The statement continued: “Steve’s optimism and genuine care for others were constants, both in and out of the office. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome.
True professional
“He called people ‘my friend’, and, as our president and CCO Cromwell Littlejohn, shared, ‘It’s likely that he may be the only person I’ve ever known who truly meant it… every time’.”
Just days before his death, Steve had been eve was in touch with colleagues, discussing client needs, laughing, and looking ahead to upcoming charters and the Monaco Yacht Show later this month, where his presence will be deeply missed, explained Northrop & Johnson.
“Steve loved the beach, was without a doubt the Florida Panthers’ number one fan (“WOOOOOOOOOO”), and travelling. He was a proud father, grandfather, a loyal friend, and someone who genuinely enjoyed the life he built,” continued the statement.
“The team at Northrop & Johnson extends our heartfelt condolences to Steve’s family, friends, and clients.
“He was a true professional and an even better human being. We will miss him dearly.”
