The Kansas City community lost a dear friend recently. Steve Metzler was an accomplished businessman, generous philanthropist and friend to many.

Steve was the second-generation co-owner of Metzler Brothers Insurance until 2013, when he sold it to Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. He was also the co-founder of the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, a supporter of the arts and a contributor to many nonprofits, including several dedicated to helping women.

And that’s how I met Steve. For many years, he was a sponsor of the Kansas City chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners, an organization I’ve been deeply involved with. Steve not only helped to support the chapter financially, but busy as he was, he found the time to attend most meetings, got to know our members and actively worked to connect them to the people and resources they needed to become better business owners.

Metzler Brothers Insurance was also a winner of the 25 Under 25® Award in 2006. Steve was an active alumnus and sponsored the awards gala in subsequent years.

Yes, Steve made numerous charitable contributions and gave liberally of his time. But what I will remember most about Steve was the way he would move around a room, seek each person out to say “hello” and ask how they were doing. It was yet another gift Steve gave … to make people feel welcome and important. It’s what I will remember most about him … and it’s what I will miss the most about him.