Stefan Scheidling

Stefan Scheidling, 94, died on August 30, 2026. He was born on December 22, 1931, in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, to Karl and Anna Scheidling, and came of age during wartime—years that demanded endurance, steadiness, and a quiet strength. Through life’s challenges, Stefan carried himself with a calm dignity that those who knew him came to rely upon and respect.

A master craftsman, Stefan created beautiful structures in metal and glass, leaving work that stands as a lasting testament to patience, skill, and thoughtful care. Some of his finest craftsmanship can be found in cathedrals, in Grand Central Station, the Angels and Rockefeller Center, and across many other grand and beautiful projects—places where his hands helped shape spaces meant to inspire. His work reflected not only talent, but a wise attention to detail and a devotion to doing things the right way.

Stefan was married for over 65 years to his beloved Christa. He was the cherished father of Wolfgang, Petra, and Erika, and the proud Opa and grandpa to five wonderful grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. In the life he built with his family, Stefan was devoted and steadfast—someone who showed love through constancy, through presence, and through the countless ways he made daily life easier for those around him.

He also found deep joy in the simple, enduring pleasures of a life well lived. He loved fishing, and his family will always hold close the fond summer memories made together at Lake Ronkonkoma. He enjoyed fishing, skiing, and stamp and coin collecting, and with characteristic thoughtfulness curated a book of coins for each his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved to garden and grow vegetables, and he took pleasure in soccer, faithfully rooting for the German team.

In the words remembered by those who loved him: “The man, the myth, the legend.” Stefan was, above all, a simple man with a generous heart—patient, kind-hearted, compassionate, and selfless. He did not seek attention, and he did not complain; instead, he gave quietly, consistently, and with care. To many, he will always be remembered as “King Stefan”—beloved, cherished, and deeply missed.