Darrel "Rudy" Stevens

Darrel Eugene Stevens, 61, died Friday (Oct. 14) at Estelle's House, Hospice facility in Ocala after a prolonged illness.

Born and reared in Gainesville, Darrel lived in the Belleview area for the past 28 years. He was general manager and salesman for H&M Mower Sales & Service in Leesburg.

Darrel who was nicknamed "Rudy," was known throughout the area as a softball player, softball coach and recreation league umpire and referee. He was a devoted fan of University of Florida Gator athletics and he loved the water, spending many happy hours jet skiing on Lake Weir.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Ann Stevens of Gainesville. He is survived by a brother, David Stevens of San Diego, California; and three sisters, Kerry Burke of Ocala; Linda Trantham of Gainesville and Andrea Anderson of Lacrosse; ten nieces and nephews and many close friends.

A celebration of Darrel's life will be held from 11:00 - 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 20, 2016 at the Kiwanis Club of Lake Weir, 15380 SE 140th Ave Rd, Weirsdale, FL 32195. In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy, contributions in Darrel's memory may be made to Hospice of Marion County.