Stephen Norman Lisle Jr.

Stephen N. Lisle, Jr. age 83 of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Wayzata, Minnesota, passed away at home on April 14, 2021. Steve led a full and exciting life with Sally, his beautiful and beloved wife of 59 years, always by his side.

Steve began his career at Community Credit in Minneapolis. From there he entered the car business where his entrepreneurial spirit flourished – first at Larsen Chevrolet, then as part-owner of Westside Volkswagen in St. Louis Park. Steve went on to own and manage car dealerships: Steve Lisle Volkswagen in St. Paul and Rochester Motor Cars. Steve was a valued friend, colleague and mentor to countless people throughout his career.

Steve and Sally made Arizona their full-time home in 1994. Steve became involved in Arizona commercial real estate, successfully building a portfolio which he managed with a unique combination of business intuition and an incredible grasp of the minutest details until his final days.

His family designated Steve an honorary member of the chamber of commerce as he happily shared the wonders of Arizona. He and Sally built a beautiful Mesa home that his family lovingly called Camp Lisle, and Steve was a most energetic camp director! Every visit to their home was full of warmth, plenty of laughter and endless fun. Whether golfing, hiking, tubing down the Salt River, or riding motorcycles in the mountains, he joined his sons and their families in taking advantage of every minute together.

Steve would tell you in his unbiased opinion that he had the prettiest and smartest wife, the best sons, wonderful daughters in-law and grandchildren who were each going to light the world on fire in their own special way. He was his family's greatest cheerleader.

Steve curated many long-lasting friendships with the extraordinary people who crossed his path at various points in his life. He leaves a legacy of family first, joie de vivre, and success that his family will carry on in his memory.

In addition to his Sally, Steve is survived by his sons and their families: Stephen N. (Marcy) Lisle III, Thomas H. (Erin) Lisle, and his grandchildren, Nicholas (Chelsie) Lisle, Evan (Caroline) Lisle, Annabel Lisle, Bridget Lisle and great-granddaughter Sloane Lisle; his brother Michael (Suzanne) Lisle Sr. and special nephew Michael (Nicole) Lisle Jr. and niece Sarah (Ryan) Jacox and their families; and many friends and business associates. He was preceded in death by his parents Catherine and Stephen Lisle Sr. Steve attended St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota and the University of Minnesota. He was a past member and trustee of Wayzata Community Church, past president of the Greater Metro Automobile Dealership Association and the Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association. For those who wish to honor Steve, remembrance donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley or St. John’s University Football Program. A celebration of life open house will be held May 22 from 2-5 pm at the Vistas Pavilion at Las Sendas in Mesa. A memorial service will be held in Minnesota at a later date.