Bobbi Stevens

The end of an era! Brad's passing causes us to reminisce over many happy times we've had with Brad and Bobbi. We especially appreciated Brad's intellectual discussions. He had a way of singling out someone at various events and create a scholarly chat about anyone of many topics: sailing, metallurgy, opera, art, writers, wine, travel, engineering, and many others. His curious mind not surprisingly led to many patents and great solutions to problems. One notable solution was encountered while sailing from Beaver Island to the mainland. It was a very hot day, with no wind! I went below to mix a round of gin and tonics for all. Much to my chagrin, we had run out of gin! Brad, without hesitation said, "Do you have any rum?" This was our first introduction to rum & tonic, now a favorite.

I have known Brad for most of my life, but there is much I did not know about him. I did not know that he (as well as I) went to Tappan Jr. High, that he taught music, art and english. I do know that as a youngster he taught me how to use a bow saw, (and many other tools) maintain a swimming pool (I still use some of his ideas) and he helped me purchase my first power tool. It was a "Skil" brand "sabre saw". I still have it, but it no longer works. Just one of those things I can't get rid of. I was maybe 8 or 9 years old, I had saved my own money for it, and as I remember it, was a bit controversial at the time- I believe Bobbi said something to the effect of "you can't do that- he's too young" but Brad said "ha" and went ahead and ordered it for me anyway. He took me for my first glider ride, at Rossettie field, it was probably 30 years ago-something I would not do again until this year.
I will miss Brad and Bobbi, my "other parents".

Bobbi,and Brad were my neighbors..not like next door neighbors..close enough so we neighbored once in a while We talked about how they built the pool,did they use it..(I wanted to build one too)..ceramics, music, things like that and just talk...I hadn't stopped by for a long time even thoughI intended to every time I walked by their house..funny how their energy is still there.. the feeling that I'm welcome to drop in lingers there...Every time I pass by....I look over at the pool,and look to see if anyone is in the yard...

My Uncle Brad influenced me in many ways. He was such a huge part of my life. If I had my own personal Mount Rushmore, Brad's face would be right in the middle -- A founding father. I miss him.

One of Brad's talents was bestowing nicknames. Mine was "Yam" (derived from William). This other name bothered me at first, but then became a personal connection to my beloved uncle.

I have gathered images from Brad's life as an inventor. These images are akin to the photos of Bobbi's artwork. Brad's masterpieces. These images are gathered in a set on the family archive on flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hathsomephotos/sets/72157619578354063/

The Brad and Bobbi Stevens family archive is in a larger set of images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hathsomephotos/sets/72157603348365730/

I just was checking out the Clay Gallery web site and was saddened to read of Bobbi's death.
In my time in Ann Arbor and at the Clay Gallery I was always impressed by Bobbi's energy and talent. She welcomed me as a new member of the community in a way that made me feel at home. Her spirit will live on in all of us who had a chance spend time with her and in all of her wonderful art pieces.
Frances Mackey

Dear Brad and Family,
I live with Bobbi's fireplace, watching the colors change from pink to turquoise to violet to red to green to blue. And on and on, depending on the light and on the sun.
I'm thrilled to see 'our' (Barry and Barbara Sloat) raku fireplace facade on Bobbi's site.
If anyone wants to see this 'living' piece of art, and feel Bobbi's continuing presence, please let me know. You are most welcome.
I miss Bobbi and, at this time of year, those many cross-country ski trips to East Jordan, MI. Her smile - YES!! Barbara Sloat

October 9, 2008
To the Stevens Family, We are deeply saddened to hear of Bobbi's passing. As friends of nearly fifty years, we share in your great loss. We cherish her fey spirit and joy for life. She lives on in all who were touched by her. We have wonderful memories over a half century of joyous experiences at home ,on the water, and in the mountains with the Steven's Family. Please accept our deepest condolences.
With Much Love, Mike and Peg Lee (Incline Village)

October 8, 2008
Bobbi was a great friend of my parents, Myron and Peggy Lee, and I remember so many fond memories of her and her artwork growing up as a child. She had a unique vitality that exhuded enthusiasm to all around her. I remember her laugh and her smile!
Susan Lee (San Francisco, CA)

October 3, 2008
Bobbi and my mother, Mary Sue Williams Stoll, were longtime friends and Potters' Guild associates. I recall the many occasions spent with Bobbi at the guild, and with her family, sailing at Silver Lake, and at the Stevens home on Kimberly in A2. I fondly remember Bobbi's kindness, energy, and generosity.
Alex Stoll Templeton (Seattle, WA)

September 29, 2008
Bobbi was my first teacher in ceramics. Her love for the art and her enthusiasm for teaching made me fall in love with clay, and I will always be grateful for that.
Thank you Bobbi!!
Peace & Love,
Jon Van Eck (Ann Arbor, MI)