Bernard Stegman, Founder of Arrow Exterminating (N.Y.), Dies

Bernard Stegman, founder and longtime owner of Arrow Exterminating, Lynbrook, N.Y., died on Friday.

Stegman started Arrow Exterminating in 1947 with just $3.50. The 28-year-old had returned from serving as an Army aircraft officer in World War II to complete a mechanical engineering degree at New York City College. But a career in mechanical engineering no longer seemed appealing, so instead he joined a friend’s exterminating company, hoping this business would be “Depression-proof.” A short time later that friend gave him everything he needed to start his own business. Stegman bought business cards with that $3.50 and set out on his own.

As Long Island grew after the war, Arrow thrived. Stegman imbued the company with his own personal ethos—to do whatever necessary to take care of customers, to always be available, to do the best work. He learned as much as possible, seeking out knowledge wherever he could, and he was always willing to pass that knowledge on to others who needed it.

In 1952, Stegman helped to found the Long Island Pest Control Association, and created the association’s education program, leading one industry insider to call him “the father of the industry on Long Island.” The company has grown to employ more than 100 people, and to be one of the largest and most successful pest control firms in the New York area. Clients have included the Long Island Rail Road, the state Department of Transportation and the U.S. Postal Service. In 1990, Stegman was recognized by PCT and Syngenta as Leadership award winner.

Stegman’s own family — his wife and two daughters (Debby Tappan and Jackie Grabin) — have been part of the business as well. Debby and Jackie currently own and operate Arrow Exterminating.

Bernard was the husband of the late Irene Stegman, and father of Jackie Grabin, Steven, Debby Tappan and the late Susan. He was a grandfather of David, Jessica, Daniel, August and Sydney. Services will be haled Sunday, November 2, 2014, at noon at Boulevard-Riverside Chapels, Hewlett, N.Y.