About sTEPHEN

Stephen grew up in St. John's, MI, where he graduated from St. John's High School. Stephen graduated from the University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, where he was a member of the Michigan Triathlon Team and beloved roommate of the Dewey house. He continued his education at Washington University in St. Louis, where he received a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and also met his wife, Michelle. Stephen received a second bachelor of science in software engineering from the University of Colorado. Stephen worked at the University of Michigan Health System as a research analyst for the pulmonary and critical care department and lived in Ann Arbor. Stephen had a passion for running, drinking coffee, spending time outdoors, and learning about science.

His passion for running was a central part of who he was; whether it was running himself, or discussing professional running. Stephen had a tendency for spontaneous running as well, meaning that even if he hadn’t been running in weeks, he might ask you to go do quarters on the track or go for a long run; he didn’t seem to mind the challenge of pushing himself. He tried to pass on his love for running to his dog, Leia, but he was disappointed in her for not being able to break 6 minutes in the mile, but loved her deeply anyway. 

More than anything, he loved to spend quality time with his friends and family. Time spent with his spouse, Michelle, his parents, Jeff and Becky Kay; his brothers, Zach and Josh Kay; his sister, Rachel Leman; sisters-in-law, Cheryl and Magen Kay; brother-in-law, Marcus Leman, his nine nieces and nephews, and many dear friends were what mattered most to Stephen.

Stephen, beloved husband, son, brother, uncle, and a friend to many, passed away peacefully at the age of 29 surrounded by loved ones on December 4, 2021, in Ann Arbor, MI due to complications from Common Variable Immunodeficiency - a disease he never let get in the way of living his life to the fullest.