Stephen Newmark Loew Jr.; Ran Capitol Milling

Stephen Newmark Loew Jr., who operated Capitol Milling Co. in the oldest commercial structure in Los Angeles, has died. He was 82.

Loew, whose family has owned the flour mill since 1883, died Tuesday in Los Angeles.

The brick building with its two-story logo at the edge of Chinatown was built in 1831 by Massachusetts sea captain Abel Stearns. The bricks came from Philadelphia and the millstones--given to the Los Angeles Museum of Natural History in 1920--were imported from France.

Loew’s grandfather Jacob Loew bought the mill April 18, 1883, and soon brought his German immigrant nephew, Herman Levi, into the business. Both men married daughters of another pioneering Southern California family, the Newmarks.

Stephen Loew, who worked at the mill for more than 60 years, said each generation had happily stepped into the business and there never had been any discussion of selling it.

“It has provided a good livelihood over 100 years for two families,” he told The Times in 1983 as the Loews and Levis celebrated a centennial of ownership.

At the turn of the century, the mill produced flour for housewives. But for several years its customers have been large bakeries. Ralphs, the grocery chain, has been a customer for more than 100 years.

In addition to his duties at the mill, Loew was known as a major supporter and volunteer in Jewish causes in Southern California.

He is survived by his wife, Rolinde; daughters Susan Wilson and Lindy Bloom; brothers Jack and Robert, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Services are scheduled today at noon at Leo Baeck Temple, West Los Angeles.

The family has asked that any memorial contributions be made to the Jewish Free Loan Assn., 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.