Attorney Stephen P. Bancroft passed away on November 13, 2012, at his home in South Dartmouth after a brief illness. He was cared for by many loving people who helped his family cope with the pain of losing a wonderful father, husband and friend.
Born in New Bedford, the only son of Claire (Rocheleau) Bancroft and the late Arthur D. Bancroft, Jr., he lived in New Bedford and Dartmouth all of his life. He took great pride in his local heritage and large extended family.
Attorney Bancroft practiced law in the New Bedford area for over 30 years beginning his career as an Assistant District Attorney under Ronald A. Pina. He was a proud graduate of Bishop Stang High School, Boston College, and Suffolk University School of Law. Bancroft was a member of the Massachusetts and American Bar Associations.
Attorney Bancroft saw the good in all people and was happiest when able to help those in need. His attention and efforts always went to helping others. Not wanting recognition or payment, Bancroft simply tried every day to make the world a better place.
An avid sailor and mariner, Bancroft’s finest times were spent on the waters of Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound where he began sailing and racing many years ago. His greatest joy was being able to share his passion with his family and friends sailing and fishing in the waters he referred to as “his backyard.” A voracious reader and historian, his knowledge touched many but most of all his children who learned so much over the years from a father who always had the time to teach, explain and guide.
In addition to sailing, Bancroft enjoyed many winters skiing throughout New England but primarily at Waterville Valley, New Hampshire with family and friends. “The family that skis together, stays together” became a family motto that brought many to New Hampshire to enjoy the snow and camaraderie of weekends and vacations.
Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Vicki Abbott Bancroft and two children, Scott Arthur Bancroft and his girlfriend Alison Clark and Kimberley Denise Bancroft and her boyfriend Adam Graves. He is also survived by his mother, Claire Bancroft and his three sisters, Mrs. Carol Verrochi and her husband William, Mrs. Diane Zuspan and her husband Jay and Mrs. Laurie Mandly and her husband James. In addition, he is survived by four nephews, three nieces, three great nieces and one great nephew. His large extended family includes cousins, aunts and uncles throughout the local area to Cape Cod and Hawaii. He leaves many treasured and valued friends with whom he shared the best of times and memories.
Friends and family are graciously invited to greet his family and share in remembering his life and legacy on Friday November 16, 2012 at the Seamen’s Bethel in New Bedford from 3:00-7:00 PM. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 10 AM in St. Julie Billiart Church, 494 Slocum Rd., Dartmouth. According to Attorney Bancroft’s wishes, he will have a private burial at sea at a later date.
Donations may be made in Stephen P. Bancroft's memory to: The Bancroft Family Foundation, c/o REMINC, 55 Hammarlund Way Tech 2, Middletown, RI 02842. The Foundation will distribute all funds received per the instruction of Vicki, Scott and Kimberley Bancroft for the benefit of Special Needs Children in the greater New Bedford Area. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.