CANANDAIGUA: Jason C. Steitler, age 56, died on November 28 after a long illness.  He is survived by his mother Karen Steitler, father Edward Steitler, his partner Jenny Sterner, sisters Lisa (Tim) Zonneville and Heather (Alex) Tortora, brother Derek (Kerri) Larsen, niece Madison Tortora and nephew Nicolas Tortora. 

Jason was a graduate of Newark Senior High School where he participated in choir and musicals. He continued his education at RIT earning a Bachelor’s degree with a major in Criminal Justice. As a child Jason was a poster child for the March of Dimes for five years. At the age of 16 he learned to drive a hand controlled car and passed the driver’s test in a snow storm. When he received his driver’s license he shared “I’ve gained my independence, it is freedom”.  In his younger years Jason enjoyed playing quad (wheelchair) rugby, lifting weights, and karate. 

Jason interned for the Rochester Police Department as a cooperative education student. He also worked for Monroe County 911. For the majority of his professional career he was an employee at Monroe County Arc.

Jason was extremely devoted to his partner Jenny and they worked as a team to overcome many life challenges. Jason and Jenny enjoyed going to plays and concerts, dining out, and just being together.

Jason was proud of his independence and courageously lived his life on his own terms. He was a role model for people living with a disability.

Jason will always be our “tiger, tiger burning bright”.

Services will be private and in lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Jason’s name can be made to the Greater Rochester Spina Bifida Association and/or the Alzheimer’s Association.