Verizon Wireless Music Center GM Steve Finkel Dies

CLEVELAND, OH (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Steve Finkel, General Manager of Verizon Wireless Music Center and Blossom Music Center, died early on the morning of January 4, 2010 after a long battle with bladder cancer.

Finkel was a concert industry veteran with more than 30 years in the business, spent much of his time in the Detroit, St. Louis and Indianapolis markets where he worked with acts such as The Rolling Stones, Dave Matthews Band and Jimmy Buffett over the course of his career.

One of Finkel's passions was his involvement with the Livestrong Foundation, started by seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong and helps people who are affected by cancer. Finkel was working towards bringing a Livestrong Challenge bike ride/athletic event to Indianapolis, to help raise awareness of the Livestrong Foundation and cancer treatments.

"He was a mentor and teacher and changed people’s lives wherever he went with his subtle and supportive ways." Steve's wife Tracy wrote in a statement.

Finkel will be remembered at two events; one at 5PM on January 14, at the Murat, 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis and the other on January 21, at the Pageant Theatre, 6161 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, also starting at 5PM. emorial contributions may be made to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Attn: Colleen O'Farrell, 2201 E. 6th St., Austin, TX 78702 or online at livestrong.org Arrangements: Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary. Online condolences: arnmortuary.com. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers