Stefan Albert Lehtis

Stefan Albert Lehtis passed away suddenly on May 4, 2023 in Phoenix AZ. He was born in Englewood, NJ, on October 6, 1991 with the most precious dimples and a “true smile” which the pediatrician remarked was highly unusual. He grew up first in Chestnut Ridge, NY, then Oak Park, IL, and finally Grayslake, IL. His parents and brother reside in Evanston, IL. He was at Lincoln Elementary School in Oak Park, IL for first grade where he overlapped with his older brother Alexander. After moving to Grayslake in 1999, he went to Prairie Crossing Charter School from 3rd Grade through middle school then on to Grayslake Central High School (graduated in 2010). He played baseball all the way through high school. Stefan attended the University of Iowa, and graduated from the Henry B. Tippie College of Business with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Management in 2014. While at Iowa, Stefan was active in his fraternity, Phi Delta Theta. His last role was Account Executive - SLED at Verkada in Phoenix, where he was one of the top sales reps in the company.

Stefan moved to Arizona to escape winter a few years back - he loved the Arizona sun and increased opportunities to play golf. He enjoyed volunteer work in his spare time and jogging. He was a sports fanatic who text messaged with his Dad during games. He was a lifelong fan of the NY Mets, NY Jets, and the Chicago Blackhawks. His favorite show was The Sopranos. Stefan loved a wide-range of music and put together amazing, diverse playlists. His favorite artists included rock music like Tom Petty and Oasis, and the electronic DJ Lane 8.

Stefan was close to his protective big brother, Alexander, baby sister Silvie, her husband and his brother-in-law Mike, and beloved new niece, Lenna, age 2. He frequently talked on the phone to his Mom Sunday evenings and every conversation ended in a mutual “I love you very much.” He loved his family unconditionally, and his family loves him back beyond measure. Stefan had many aunts and uncles and cousins who adored him. His grandmothers Mariel Farlow and Audrey McLaughlin hold him so dear.

Stefan is remembered for being a big guy with the softest, kindest, gentlest heart by his many friends and colleagues. The comments from all who knew and loved him mention this trait again and again. He is survived by his father and mother, Erik A. Lehtis and Maureen McLaughlin, his brother, Alexander Lehtis, sister Silvie, brother-in-law Michael, and niece Lenna (Janssen). He is preceded in death by his grandfathers Dr. Philip E. McLaughlin and Allan Lehtis, his aunt Patricia K. McLaughlin, his great uncle Donald Wheeler, and his college buddy and roommate Jay Burger.

Stefan had been baptized and confirmed at The Christian Community in Chicago, IL. The family has not yet decided on a Celebration of Life, but will be sure to update all. In lieu of donations the family requests you check in on one another more often, that you forgive and love each other harder, and that you hold one another closer to your heart at all times.