In Memory of Stephen D. Cutler
1936 – 2020

As if 2020 were not difficult enough, we were dealt a particularly hurtful and personal blow with the unexpected passing of Steve Cutler shortly before Thanksgiving.  Steve, our President and a Senior Portfolio Manager, first joined Essex in 1989, and for the past 30 years has been a great colleague, investor, mentor, leader and friend to Essex and to our valued clients.  We will forever remember Steve with great fondness and respect.  In an industry known for outsized egos, self-aggrandizement and boastful claims, Steve stood out for his humility and self-deprecating humor, possessing the rare ability to combine investment acumen with meaningful client relationships.  Most importantly, Steve lived a life of consequence – he was a loving husband, father and grandfather, he was a wise investor and counselor for Essex and our clients, and he was an impactful philanthropist that meaningfully improved the lives of many through his extraordinary gifts to education and medicine. Whenever we reflect on the accomplishments of a person, the greatest compliment is that they made a difference to the world and Steve certainly achieved that.  He will be missed.