Bob Sterman, a beloved family man and longtime, highly successful Certified Public Accountant in Orange County, passed away on February 13, 2023, at the age of 92.
He was the devoted husband of Henny Sterman for more than 62 years; loving father to Paul Sterman (Joelle), Wendy Bokota (Paul) and Tammy Isaacs (Dan); and cherished “Papa” to six grandchildren: Larisa Bokota Malley (Austin) and Zach and Aniela Bokota; Jake and Makaela Isaacs; and Hannah Sterman. He is also survived by his dear sister, Shirley Schuler, niece Penny Lambert and sister-in-law Claire Tucker.
Bob founded an accounting firm that eventually became Sterman, Higashi & Herter, located at various times in Santa Ana and Tustin.
With his vast financial acumen and strong work ethic, he provided invaluable service to a long list of clients, including physicians and real estate investors, Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bob grew up in Queens, became a CPA and moved to California in 1957. There he met his future wife, Henny, at a B’nai B’rith gathering in Los Angeles. They married in 1960, and after starting a family, moved to Santa Ana in 1967.
With the help of Henny, Bob launched his accounting firm, eventually expanding the company and guiding it to prominence over the course of 30-plus years.
Bob was an avid tennis player, spending many happy times at the Tustin Hills Racquet Club. He also loved playing bridge with his wife and friends. Most of all, he relished vacation time with his family.
At a February 19 funeral service, Bob’s children and grandchildren spoke lovingly of his influence, unique personality, and enduring love for Henny.
We will miss him profoundly but will always celebrate the life he led and what he gave to others.