Ralph K. Pedersen
I first arrived in College Station in 1984 as a freshly-scrubbed graduate from
New York. Suffering from culture shock, I managed somehow to find my way out to the annex where the nautical program was based at the time. Once there the secretary walked me over to the ship lab to meet Mr. Steffy. Although he was busy, he took the time to chat with me about things, particularly carpentry. I clearly knew next to nothing about boats, except that they floated and often sank, but Mr. Steffy did not mind. His kindness made me feel right at home.
Over the years the ship lab always felt welcoming- the scent of the wood, the drafting paper and tools, and the presence of a very kind gentleman meant a lot and made difficult times easier. Mr. Steffy will be missed.