In Loving Memory of John Stephens
Stories of My Father
My dad had an impact on everyone who met him. Please share your stories here. Share as many as you want. Our family will read everything you share.
Donna Wray
8/21/2024
When a man can live his life in such a way, that when he leaves it, he leaves a hole, THAT is a life well lived. And when that man is your husband, father, brother or friend, those left behind are blessed to know that for the rest of their lives, from what now appears to be an empty place, a profound love will emanate. And with the passing of time, this love will weave itself, like gossamer threads of steel, through the hearts of his family. This love is everlasting. This love is unbreakable. This is the love of John.
Mike Tolman
8/18/2024
I have known John for all of my 30 years at Michelin and as a fellow church member. He was great to work with, passionate about business and even fiercely defending the interests of “his” fleet or OEM customer. He was extremely proud of his family and talked often of his sweet wife and kids. I will always smile as I think of the many times John would come ambling up and say - hey got a minute - we need to talk ! He was a great man, beloved husband, Father / grandfather and will be dearly missed. His integrity was his hallmark and his faith and ever present beacon.
Darlyn Hansen Remington
8/17/2024
John had a contagious smile and fun laugh that made anyone around him feel good. Such a good person, and I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending hugs your way.
Erin perkins
8/15/2024
I will forever be grateful to John and Sara for trusting their first daughter to get married to our son! I laughed as our son told abt John driving him around for an hour trying to convince him they were to young and shouldn’t get married! I love how protective John was and love that he had high expectations for his daughter’s husband! John and Sara have taught us a lot and we were grateful to inherit the entire family! We love them all! We lucked out marrying in and are so grateful we got to know and love John
Carla Lovi
8/15/2024
John was one of the first people I met at Michelin almost 23 years ago and from the beginning he made an impact on my life and career. His knowledge , passion, and continued support were truly inspiring . I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from him and well as call him a friend. RIP John Stephens Rob and I will keep his memory alive by embodying the values he stood for. Praying for peace and comfort
Joel Wagenman
8/15/2024
I will miss John being part of my quorum. Knowing the hard road he was traveling the last several months, I deeply appreciated listening to his insights about how loving the gospel and his faith strengthened him during these times. He has had a significant impact on my own faith. He and Sara are excellent teachers who cared about those under their stewardship. When my daughter was preparing to receive temple ordinances, John was particularly caring and attentive to her preparation. Our daughter and I will always be grateful for that special time. We love the Stephens family!
Court Hilton
8/15/2024
John is our brother in our priesthood quorum. I enjoyed and looked forward to his thoughtful perspectives. He served, shared, and taught quietly, with depth, sharing his wisdom without fanfare. I am grateful for his influence in my life. We also remember with gratitude his influence teaching and preparing our grandson for his Temple covenants.
John and Sandy Woll
8/15/2024
We want to express our deepest heartfelt condolences to you. For many years John and his family sat behind us in Church. We always looked forward to seeing his smiling face! His courageous battle and his strength throughout was such an example to us. We will never forget the comedy show and dinner afterwards. We will miss you!! Till we meet again my friend ❤️
Fritz Mueller
8/15/2024
I thought the world of John. Notj ust as a team member /colleague, but as a person. From my experience he was a real gentleman, a fine man and great role model for his family and all of us....
Kate Manning
8/15/2024
I worked at BYU Broadcasting while in college - I captioned archival football games so they were ready for rebroadcast. What fun it was to find out I could caption one of BYU’s matchups with Utah State when John played. I think Utah State won that game! Only time I’ve been happy for that happening… John is my husband’s uncle, but I’ve had the privilege of seeing him at various Stephens family reunions. We would all play the candy game together and usually John wouldn’t get his preferred choice, then declare he could just buy his own on the drive home. He also made great cowboy cookies!
Nate Kirian
8/15/2024
John made the world a better place, by exemplifying how to thrive balancing work, family and friends, in a way that was always humble, genuine, impactful, and inspiring. I always admired him for these traits, learned from him, and I know that John left a lasting impression on many, many other people as he did me. We need more people like John Stephens in this world, and let us all do our part to emulate the impressive behaviors that we saw and learned from him. May you rest in peace John knowing that your legacy will not be forgotten. You will be missed!
Kathy Hirschi
8/15/2024
I remember just enjoying being around the whole Stephens family. John always took an interest in our family. I remember he even came to one of Ben’s basketball games, even though I’m sure he had more than enough games and events to attend with his own kids. He was such a kind, caring, funny guy who uplifted anyone he was with. He will be missed!
Brett Dotson
8/15/2024
John was a good friend. He treated everyone with respect and kindness. John ate with my family many times and developed a great relationship with my family. One story that I think shows a lot about John happened recently. One of my kids graduated from college recently. John talked to him and gave him some advice. A few days later he called my son back and asked if he needed anything. That really showed what a thoughtful man he was.
Hutch Persons
8/15/2024
So very sad. He will be missed by many. John of course was part of the Michelin NAFA SAM Team when many of us were there. I so much enjoyed working with him in several positions over the years. God Bless John and his family.
Nikki Nordhus
8/15/2024
John was larger than life and he touched so many people. He was the best manager, mentor and friend to so many, including myself. I loved his passion and his willingness to debate me on so many levels and to always do it with a sense of humor. I have so many stories of when I worked for him that make me smile. I learned so much from him and had the utmost respect. One of the best stories was when he called me to tell me that he met famous someone in the airport in Florida —- It ended up being Flo Rida.. he was so excited even though he didn’t know who he was! I still have the picture! He loved his family and always talked about how Sara was a saint to put up with him. He loved his kids. I was having dinner with him in November and he talked about his grandkids and how much they meant to him. He showed me pictures of his little grandson and how he dressed up just like him for Halloween. You could tell how much love he had for you all. He was the most humble gentle giant and his will be missed. Just know that you all are in my thoughts
Bob Reddy
8/15/2024
John was a great person and friend. He exemplified character and integrity, and always made people around him feel welcome. God bless!
Andy Beasley
8/15/2024
I had the privilege to work with John on both the tire and services side of Michelin. No matter the role or task John was John - consistent, disciplined, and dedicated to do his best. When John said he was going to do something he made it happen. Whether that was a customer request, or visit, but more importantly and oftentimes his commitment to support people. When we would have team meetings and folks would ask for examples or ideas, John was the first to raise his hand with an opinion/thought/insight, and also to offer advice and support to someone with newer in the business. No matter what was going on with him - he was there for his family and work team. I am honored to have known and worked with John and am humbled to see the true legacy he leaves behind everywhere he touched.
Chris Mercer
8/15/2024
The pictures shared are a reminder that John was not just a legend at Michelin, but a reminder of someone who truly understands the meaning of work/life balance! We looked up to John for so many reasons like this. Praying for your entire family for a peace that passes understanding...
Kiki
8/15/2024
John always was the life of the party at any family gathering! Not did he have sharp wit and a great sense of humor, he was so sensitive to people’s needs and knew the perfect compliment to make your day. I appreciate how much he always knew what was going on in my life. I will miss his legendary cowboy cookies and his big, bald and beautiful presence!
Craig and Melanie Sorensen
8/14/2024
I had the blessing to be a teammate and roommate with John at Utah State and had the blessing to go on months of double dates with John and Sara when they first met and then more during their first year of marriage. I will always be grateful for John’s friendship, support and always finding away to make us laugh. Most of my best memories of my 4 years + at Utah State as an Aggie included John and then John and Sara. So sorry for your loss 🙏🏻
Sutton Hanzalik
8/14/2024
I have no great stories, but when you’re an Aggie, the brotherhood is strong! We were teammates in 1987. I do remember the quiet nature he had, but he never had a problem holding his own on the gridiron!! Big teddy bear off the football field no doubt! Much love my Aggie brother!!!
Mike Woolley
8/14/2024
I had the privilege of getting to know John in South Carolina through church. John’s love and concern for his wife and kids was unmatched. He was always so excited to spend time with any of his kids who had moved away and had come to town to visit. Just a wonderful example.
Ed Quigley
8/14/2024
John will always be someone I look up to. My most cherished moments at Michelin were the times spent with John either watching him in action on sales calls or taking early morning runs with him at sales meetings. I enjoyed our time discussing family, work and life. He will be deeply missed.
Leyla Martinez
8/14/2024
John was a remarkable person who faced his battle with cancer with courage and grace, never allowing his pain to overshadow his kindness, humor, and unwavering spirit. He was a giant softie, always showing compassion and warmth to those around him. John was a source of strength and inspiration to everyone around him, always putting others first and never letting his struggles define him.
Adam Aurich
8/14/2024
John and I enjoyed many meals together. He was our Michelin Contact for a few years. I always looked forward to our meetings and lunches. He was a genuine person who cared about individuals as much as he did the business relationship. I had many conversations with John about my family and the youth football team I coached. He was always interested in how my team was as doing. He loved his family and always spoke about them with the pride of a loving father. He will be missed!
Laren Harmon
8/14/2024
John and I worked together for many years. He was a dedicated, reliable, and all round excellent sales professional. He spoke his mind and handled every interaction with the highest levels of integrity and professionalism. He will be missed.
Runako Pitts
8/14/2024
John’s care and love for everyone was so clear. I am grateful for his being a colleague and a friend. When my family and I were enduring some very challenging times, John, literally, was the first to reach out and provide comfort and support. John will be truly missed!
Rhonda Ascencio
8/14/2024
John wasn't just a coworker; he was someone I deeply admired. His ambition, confidence, and unique ability to build relationships set him apart. He would often say, "Rhonda, I know we don't always see eye to eye, but I have to say I enjoy working with you." I'd reply, "Thanks, John. You're not too bad yourself." It breaks my heart that I only had a few years to know him, but his presence will be felt at MCF for a long time. Love you, John—YOU were loved.
Joshlin Sheridan
8/13/2024
John Stephens will always be "uncle John" to me, or also known as "Big, Bald, and Beautiful!" I cherish the time I got to spend with him growing up, particularly when both of our families lived in Kansas. We'd get together for dinners on fast Sunday and I loved time with my cousins and John and Sara. They were so supportive of me, always asking what I was up to, seeing performances I was in, and even flying out for my wedding. They were really encouraging to me when I was afraid of trying CrossFit for the first time. I always knew I was supported and loved by them. Uncle John always made me laugh when our family would play "the candy bar game" and halfway through he'd always say he'd just go buy his own candy bars at CVS. And don't get me started on his delicious cowboy cookies....yum! I remember one year that Uncle John played the donkey in the Manning/Stephens annual nativity recreation. This was very sweet since his father, grandpa Stephens, used to be the donkey before his passing. We had such wonderful family trips to Texas, Disneyworld, the Bahamas, and more! John got fired up about things he was passionate about and watching sports over at the Stephen's house was always a good time! John is big and tough, but also tender-hearted and like a teddy bear. I love Uncle John and his whole family and am grateful for the love and kindness they've shown to me throughout the years. Miss you and love you, Uncle John.
Mike Wiemer
8/12/2024
I had the good fortune to meet John 2 1/2 years ago when he came up to Salt Lake City for business with England Logistics. As we were talking, we talked about where we had gone to High School. I mentioned that I had graduated from Pleasant Grove High School in 1981, Home of the Mighty Vikings. Then John tells me he had graduated High School in 1983 from American Fork, Home of the Mighty Cavemen! We were sworn enemies...but how could I be enemies with a man so kind and genuinely good as John? Every time I saw John, we would visit and catch up with what was happening in our lives and, of course, football. We would rib each other for being from that town "not to be named", but I truly felt better each time this American Fork Caveman would visit our office. I told him about my Dad who worked for Goodyear Tire for 35 years and he would tell me about his work with Michelin Tire. Even though I'm nobody special here at England Logistics, just a regular Human Resources guy...John made me feel like I was the most important person he was here to see. I had a Friend from American Fork who was so incredible!! When Justin Olsen told me of John's passing, I was devasted that I lost that Friend. Please accept my sincerest condolences at this very difficult time. He was such a kind person to a stranger who now mourns the loss of a dear Friend from American Fork.
Jeffrey Peterson
8/11/2024
When I was called to be Bishop, I had a strong impression to call John as my 1st Counselor. I didn’t know him well but soon loved this man. He was a gentle giant and such a strength to me. I even got him out of his comfort zone once when the whole bishopric performed to the Ghostbusters music in full costume. He will sorely be missed by so many.
Melissa Knotts
8/11/2024
John was a gentle giant and a sensitive person from early in his youth! (Probably in part because he suffered loss at an early age). At an early age he knew how to express his deepest thoughts and feelings and was mature beyond his years. In addition to being amazing inside he was a handsome and my 7th grade crush. We were King and Queen of the 7th grade ball, perhaps the only school dance at that age, held in the AF junior high gym. John was always kind to everyone, had a magnetic smile and a warm personality. May your family be blessed with peace and happy memories at this challenging time.
Jodi Christensen
8/11/2024
I met JohnJohn in Kindergarten. We both attended Alta View elementary. We spent 1st grade on the same playground. I Remember him as being very nice even then. I don’t remember exactly when we both moved to AF. But John was in the background of my whole school experience. I remember him as being a sweet Constant throughout. My condolences to his family. May your memories make you smile until you meet again.
Alyssa Green
8/11/2024
When I started serving my mission I was so homesick. One of the first Sundays I had in Arizona I was able to have dinner with the Stephens. As we were talking, John started talking about my Grandma Green. We quickly put together that my grandma was his aunt. He knows my dad and family. I felt God confirming to me that I was not alone and that I had family supporting me through this experience. John took such good care of me after this. He had us over for dinner as often as possible and we shared stories about our family. He would call my dad and grandma at dinner so I could say hi. Every time we left his house we would say “bye cousin!”. I hold these memories so close to my heart. He was such a light to me in a time I was struggling and I know he has been a light in so many other’s lives and will continue to be. He told me repeatedly when having me and my companion over for dinner, “I’ve got to take care of my family”. I feel so grateful that God introduced me to one of my family members in an unusual way. I feel so blessed to have known John.
Claudia Allred
8/10/2024
I always remember him as being a kind, gentle and happy disciple of Christ.
Cheryl Holmes
8/10/2024
I remember first knowing John around 1977. He was a good sized kid even then. I can still see him in my mind as a deacon with his long hair. He would walk along and flip his head/hair. It was quite a sight. His mother was one of my very best friends so I got to hear a lot of John stories. I think he was probably her favorite. Nancy and I got to be great friends just after Denise passed away. I always loved the Stephens family. I know John was great at sports. He was a wonderful son to his parents. Even if one in awhile he was a little stinker. Love to all.
Matt Jones
8/10/2024
It was great sharing the same birthday with John. I always smile thinking about John's influence as scoutmaster particulary at camp Naish.
Zachary Jones
8/10/2024
I stressed Brother Stephens out when he was my scout leader at Camp Naish. I had an eventful week in which I had gotten injured one day and then lost in the woods the next. Even through all of that, Brother Stephens was patient and kind. He had a huge impact on my development as a young man.
Bryant
8/9/2024
My dad we really loved our kids. My oldest Miles was called "the little fella". Every time I walked in the door without him, my dad would ask, "where is the little fella". We always talked about bringing the little fella out to play golf rounds with us.
Bryant
8/9/2024
My dad attended every one of my football games. He often planned his work trips around my games so he could be in attendance.
Bryant
8/9/2024
My dad loved football. We often watched hours of college football every saturday.
Bryant
8/9/2024
My dad and I loved to golf together. We often played this smaller course called greenfield lakes. The 18th hole was not quite drivable but dad was determined to drive it. Every time we got to 18, he would put everything he had into that drive. One of our last rounds playing together, he got up to the tee and as he was swinging, he let out the loudest grunt I've ever heard. He hit a bomb! It didn't quite make it to the green but it was the closest I've ever seen him get. The grunt he let out had all of us rolling around on the ground. It was one of the funniest things I've ever witnessed from him. He was determined to drive that green. He never gave up on that goal.
Bryant
8/9/2024
One year on vacation, we went to Moab. While hiking the arch, my dad decided to try and catch some lizards. It was my first memory of seeing my dad’s child-like excitement for something. We had so much fun chasing those little things. I can’t remember if we caught any but that didn’t take away from the fun
Images of Dad
