Joseph T. Steuer, 63, Phila. Zoo CFO

Joseph T. Steuer, 63, of Blue Bell, chief financial officer and treasurer of the Philadelphia Zoo, died Saturday, Jan. 31, of brain cancer at home.

Mr. Steuer's 14 years with the zoo were a period of growth and change. The institution added exhibits and visitor amenities, renewed its focus on the health and welfare of its animals, advanced the mission of wildlife conservation, and expanded its educational services.

At the same time, Mr. Steuer delivered "record financial results," said the zoo's CEO, Vikram Dewan.

Prior to joining the zoo staff in 2000, Mr. Steuer spent 18 years with the Campbell Soup Co. in Camden. He rose from vice president and controller of the company's sales division to vice president of finance for the Campbell Soup food services division.

A Queens native, Mr. Steuer graduated from Manhattan College and earned a master of business administration from New York University. He became a certified public accountant.

Mr. Steuer was elected a trustee of Peirce College in 2012. He also was active with the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs.

When not involved in professional activities, Mr. Steuer (pronounced STOY-er) enjoyed civic work. He was chair of the Whitpain Township Shade Tree Commission for 15 years and a member of the Barnes Arboretum Advisory Council.

"He was a very engaging person, charismatic with a fabulous smile," said his wife, Constance O'Brien Steuer. "At the zoo, he was so well-loved."

Surviving, besides his wife, are sons Matthew R. and Mark B.; stepson Frank D. Cannon IV; stepdaughter, Katherine G. Killen; and a brother. His first wife, Mildred Shapiro, also survives.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 3050 Walton Rd., Plymouth Meeting, where he was a member. Visitation is from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. at the church. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia 19104.