Erik Kenneth Stegeby

May 24, 1966 – March 3, 2025

Kenneth Stegeby, a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and cherished member of the community, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the age of 58. Born on May 24, 1966, in Sundsvall, Sweden, Kenneth was known for his humor, strength, kindness, and vivacious passion for life. His deep love for his wife and daughter, as well as his extended family and friends, left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Kenneth built a distinguished career as an esteemed attorney, serving both federal and private offices. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a man of many talents and a generous heart. His sister Anita fondly recalls, “He was naturally good at anything he tried—skiing, judo, dancing, orienteering, table tennis, tennis, and riding motorcycles. We lost our youngest brother, Peter, to leukemia when he was only 21 years old. Peter and Kenneth, close in age, shared many adventures. They loved music, especially the synth rock of the ’80s. After Peter passed, Kenneth continued to pursue music as a hobby. He even compiled and produced Peter’s songs into a CD, which is one of my greatest treasures. The CD is titled ‘Peter is Enjoying Heaven.’”

Kenneth’s sense of humor was a defining trait. His siblings remember him fondly: “I remember when Kenneth, with a big smile, told me about a prank he pulled in high school. During a break, he and his classmates switched the door to the classroom with another. When the teacher tried to close the door, it wouldn’t work no matter how hard he tried!”

Kenneth’s love for his family shone in every aspect of his life, including his heartfelt wedding proposal to his wife, Michelle. She recalls, “My family was in town for Thanksgiving when we lived in Virginia. Kenneth took my father aside and asked for his blessing. I was busy preparing dinner when I turned around to find him on one knee, asking me to marry him. It was a tear-filled and incredibly special moment.” They married in Saint Lucia, a memory Michelle holds dear. She also cherished the opportunity to travel to Sweden with Kenneth and their daughter to meet his family and create lasting memories. Michelle treasured her husband's sense of humor, his wisdom, and the precious memories they created as a family. Through the years, their marriage was filled with both challenges and triumphs, but they remained steadfast partners—always supporting one another. “Together, we are one.”

Kenneth adored his daughter, Kalina, beyond measure. Their special Santa Lucia tradition will always remain close to their hearts. Kalina jokes that he had a unique way of returning lost items, often returning them with what seemed like a “magical dance”. They shared a deep love for martial arts, a passion that will continue to live on through Kalina. Kenneth took great pleasure in making Swedish crepes for her, and the two of them created countless cherished memories baking together in the kitchen. One of Kalina’s favorite memories was their time baking for the 'father-daughter cupcake wars' for Girl Scouts. He was endlessly proud of Kalina—not only for her beautiful singing voice but also for her artistic talents and accomplishments both in and out of school.

Kenneth found peace in Florida’s thunderstorms, the beauty of the sunsets, and the warmth of the sun—especially sunbathing in his backyard. He was particular about the temperature, though—he would only swim if the water was above 90 degrees! Swimming with Kalina was a cherished tradition that began when she was a baby. As his sister Anita recalls, “Kenneth always dreamed of escaping Sweden’s cold winters and moving to the USA. After much consideration, he chose Florida for its warm Gulf waters. He often joked that he was a ‘water wimp’—and proudly so!”

Kenneth’s life in the U.S. was marked by achievements. After earning his law degree, he proudly became a U.S. citizen. He moved to Washington, D.C., where he met Michelle, and together, they shared many adventures—riding motorcycles, playing beach volleyball, game nights and later, playing pickleball with friends. They eventually settled in Florida, where they built a beautiful life together. In 2012, they were blessed with their daughter, Kalina.

Kenneth’s love for family was evident when his sister visited Florida to meet Kalina at six months old. “I finally understood why Kenneth loved Florida so much,” she says. “I saw everything he cherished—the house, the pool, the sea, and all the palm trees he was so proud of.”

Kenneth was raised as a Latter Day Saint, but was also a devoted member of Calvary Episcopal Church, finding strength and community in his faith.

He is preceded in death by his loving father, Sven-Erik Stegeby, and his brother, Peter Stegeby. He is survived by his beloved wife of 16 years, Michelle Stegeby; his cherished daughter, Kalina Elise Stegeby; his beloved mother, Eva Elisabet Stegeby; his sisters, Anita Stegeby Öquist and Inger Stegeby Amanullah; his stepbrother, Håkan Stegeby; and many beloved nieces and nephews: Steven, Sarah, Elisabeth, Joel, Anton, Elise, Jörgen, Ulrika, Eva-Marie, Hans-Erik, Roger, Michaela, Jens, and Peter.

To honor Kenneth’s memory, a church service will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Calvary Episcopal Church, followed by a celebration of life in the banquet hall at 3:00 PM. Refreshments and Swedish food will be served. We invite all who knew and loved Kenneth to come and share their fond memories.

Kenneth will be remembered as a man of great intellect, unwavering dedication, and profound kindness. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who will learn of his life’s work for generations to come.

As Kenneth is embraced by the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and enters Heaven’s gates, his spirit will forever live on in the laughter, memories, and love he shared. May he rest in eternal peace.

Please share your memories and condolences by adding a memory using the link below.

The family invites you to donate to Calvary Episcopal Church as they rebuild after the hurricane, or to contribute flowers if you prefer. Donations can be made at https://www.calvaryirb.org/hurricanerelief