Stephen Ray Fleischmann passed away March 2nd, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington, at the age of 77, following a brief battle with AML.

Born on August 24, 1948, in Salem, Oregon, to Don and Elsie Fleischmann, Stephen enjoyed life as an only child until being joined by his sister Sue three years later.  Growing up in the Willamette Valley he developed a lifelong appreciation of the joys of the Pacific Northwest.  From time spent with cousins on the family farms, camping, trips to the coast and working in the local canary, Stephen was a true Oregonian. After graduating from North Salem High in 1966, Stephen went to Seattle Pacific College where he studied Business and minored in Music. Upon graduation in the spring of 1970, he would tell you he won the lottery, the draft lottery.  So, he decided to enter the service on his own terms and enlisted in the United States Navy. He proudly served the next four years as a personnel man in Guam. After enjoying the sun and surf, he returned to Salem, Oregon in 1974 where he continued working for the Navy in recruitment.

Back in Salem, Stephen met Joyce Six through their fellowship at Salem First Nazarene Church, finally asking her for a date on her birthday in May of 1975. They had a brief courtship, marrying in December 1975, and proceeding to have 3 wonderful children and 5 amazing grandchildren.

Eventually, officer school came calling and Stephen took the opportunity to serve as a Supply Officer with stints in Hawaii and California. After leaving active duty in 1983, Stephen continued in the Navy Reserves as the family moved to the Seattle area for a while and then settled in Vancouver, Washington in 1990.  Stephen served in the Navy Reserve, retiring as a Commander in 2001, while continuing to work in inventory and supply chain roles in the private sector until his retirement in 2012.

Throughout his life, Stephen maintained an infectious sense of humor, larger than life personality and a love of music, adventures and people. A member of Liberty Bible Church of the Nazarene for 35 years, Stephen was involved in the church orchestra and theatrical productions for many years and the role of High Priest in the Easter production will forever be his. He also shared his love of music by playing his clarinet and baritone saxophone in many music groups, most recently the Battle Ground Community Band. He enjoyed golfing, fishing and swapping stories. Always up for trying something new, Stephen even threw as an athlete in his first Highland Games at age 77 (placing 17th in the world for his age).

Taking advantage of retirement, Stephen and Joyce enjoyed travels around the world, but most often returning to his favorite spot at Bellows Beach on Oahu. Going almost every year, they would bring others with them to enjoy sun and fellowship. And in 2025, finally gathering the family there for a 50th anniversary celebration.

Stephen is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; daughter Kimberly; son Josh (Riley); son Sam (Noelle); younger sister Susan. As well as grandchildren West, Elsie, August, Exodus and Hatte. He is preceded in death by his parents Donald and Elsie.

Stephen's light and love for others was effervescent. His family and friends could always rely on him for support for whatever was needed, even if it was just for a story, and man, he could tell a good one of those. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life at Liberty Bible Nazarene on Saturday, March 21st at 1:00pm. Viewing held from 12:00-12:30 at the church. Graveside services will be held on Sunday, March 22nd, at 1:00pm outside of Dallas, Oregon at Salt Creek Cemetery.