Mohawk Valley EDGE announces death of longtime leader DiMeo

Mohawk Valley EDGE President Steven DiMeo passed away March 6. The economic-development leader was instrumental in many projects around the region including transforming the former Griffiss Air Force Base into a business and technology park, convincing businesses like Wolfspeed to locate in the Mohawk Valley, and numerous others. PHOTO CREDIT: MOHAWK VALLEY EDGE FACEBOOK PAGE

ROME, N.Y. — Mohawk Valley EDGE President Steven DiMeo passed away suddenly on Wednesday morning, March 6, the economic-development organization posted on its Facebook page. “Steve was more than just our president; he was the guiding force behind EDGE, the Marcy Nanocenter, Griffiss Business and Technology Park, and the entire region’s economic trajectory for the […]

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ROME, N.Y. — Mohawk Valley EDGE President Steven DiMeo passed away suddenly on Wednesday morning, March 6, the economic-development organization posted on its Facebook page.

“Steve was more than just our president; he was the guiding force behind EDGE, the Marcy Nanocenter, Griffiss Business and Technology Park, and the entire region’s economic trajectory for the past 30 years,” the statement read. “He led with a tenacious commitment to our mission, constantly driving those privileged to work alongside him.”

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr., who worked closely with DiMeo over the years, expressed his sorrow for the loss of his friend and colleague on his own Facebook page.

“Steve has been by my side for over 30 years working tirelessly to make Oneida County a better place,” he wrote. “Whether it was fighting BRAC to save Griffiss Air Force Base or leaving no stone unturned to bring a chip fab to the Marcy Nanosite, his brilliance and passion constantly elevated this entire region. I have depended on him in countless matters that have been crucial to the success of Oneida County, and his loss will be impossible to replace. I will miss his wit and humor and our endless conversations analyzing the Yankees.”

Prior to serving as president of EDGE, DiMeo was the commissioner of urban and economic development for Utica from 1984-1993, according to his LinkedIn profile.

“Steve achieved remarkable milestones during his tenure with EDGE, steering the organization through challenges and triumphs with the utmost resilience and eye always set on the endgame,” EDGE added in its Facebook post. “Beyond his professional accomplishments, Steve was a family man, a friend, someone who could tell you the batting average of the Yankees’ third baseman from 1967 or a piece of American history trivia. While always unsung, his legacy of kindness, humility, and generosity will continue to guide us as we honor his memory. As we mourn the loss of Steve, let us also celebrate his remarkable life and his profound impact on our organization, the Mohawk Valley, and the countless lives he touched.”