Gary Steinhauff, 83, of Murfreesboro, TN, formerly of Sarasota, Fl and Park Ridge, NJ, passed away on September 17, 2017, after a brief illness. Gary was the beloved husband of Elvira, and adored father of Eve Rutledge, Heidi Taber (Mike) and Claudia Lindstrom (Andy) and cherished Opa of Brett and Ryan Rutledge, Dakota Lindstrom and Troy and Julia Taber. He is predeceased by his parents, Gerhard and Gisela Steinhauff and brother W. Arnold. He is survived by his brothers Bert and Hans-Joachim and their families.

Born in Schwiebus, Germany on June 21, 1934, Gary began his lifelong trade as a master goldsmith at the young age of 13, when he became an apprentice for Countess Anemone von Sparr. In 1951, Gary immigrated with his family to Queens, NY and began his career as a gold and platinumsmith working for Fred Morgenroth and then Cartier (1953-1957), at which time he enlisted in the United States Army. He was proud of his service to his adopted country. While stationed in Germany, Gary met his future wife of 57 years, Elvira. Upon discharge, Gary worked for Julius Cohen in NYC (1959 – 1968), becoming a Master Modelmaker and over the next four decades tirelessly provided for his family while enjoying the creative outlet of designing and crafting beautiful one-of-a-kind models for McTeigue & Co. and Tiffany & Co. before retiring to Florida in 1999.

His family will best remember him as a gentleman and a gentle man. Cremation was private. Gary was thrilled to visit the school his grandson Ryan attended to share his passion with a new generation of goldsmiths. For those who desire, memorial contributions in Gary's name may be made to the Gofundme site: https://www.gofundme.com/gerhard-gary-h-steinhauff . Funds raised will be used toward the education of students pursuing goldsmithing at the New Approach School for Jewelers in Franklin, TN.