Jeffrey DeStefano

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Jeffrey DeStefano, 58, of Tottenville, a transportation service general manager, died Friday in Staten Island University Hospital, Ocean Breeze.

Born in Brooklyn, Mr. DeStefano was raised in the Ozone Park section of Queens, before relocating to Tottenville in 1999.

A graduate of Long Island University's School of Business, Mr. DeStefano owned two bus companies in Brooklyn, each for about 15 years - J.D. Transit and Caravan Transit. Two years ago, Mr. DeStefano went to work for Atlantic Express in Brooklyn, overseeing its New York City school bus operation.

While residing in Queens, Mr. DeStefano was a "community mayor" in Ozone Park. He worked extensively with disabled children and received many awards and commendations for his efforts, said his family.

"He was a very giving person," said his wife of nine years, the former Elizabeth Maldonado. "His family meant everything to him. Everything he did was for his family. He always thought of others before himself."

In his spare time, he had enjoyed riding motorcycles. When he was able, Mr. DeStefano rode his Harley Davidson every day, said his wife.

Mr. DeStefano also enjoyed playing golf.

He was an Army veteran and a parishioner of Our Lady Help of Christians R.C. Church, Tottenville.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Elizabeth, are his daughter, Michele; his stepson, Chris; his stepdaughter, Cathleen, and three grandchildren.

The funeral will be Tuesday from the Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville, with a mass at 10 a.m. in Our Lady Help of Christians Church. Burial will follow in Cypress Hills Cemetery, Queens.

Services: Our Lady Help of Christian's RC Church Tuesday, April 12,2011- 10:00AM

Visitation: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home Sunday April 10,2011 & Monday, April 11,2011 2-4 & 7-9PM

Cemetery: Cypress Hills Cemetery

Location: Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home

Church: Our Lady Help of Christians R.C.Church