Stephen Lance Heilmann

AKRON - Stephen Lance Heilmann, 40 years blessed, was liberated from the confines of his wheelchair on Thursday, March 31, 2022, while en route to a place he knew all too well - Akron City Hospital.

Ever the sweetheart, Stephen was born on Valentine’s Day 1982, in Kansas City, Missouri to Patricia Heilmann (Henry) and Edward Lance Heilmann. He was born with Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, a condition that resulted in profound physical limitations, yet it was no match for his unwavering, tenacious, and vibrant spirit.

As a child, Stephen played on a “Challenger” baseball league, was integral in the handicap-accessible, inclusive design of the local city playground, competed in numerous 5 and 10K races in his wheelchair with his mom, and was front and center at his dad’s Barbershop quartet coaching sessions.

Stephen received a standing ovation at his high school graduation ceremony from Stow-Munroe Falls High School in 2000, where his influential teacher, Cat Potter, wheeled him across the stage.

After high school, Stephen’s aspirations of paid employment came true when he earned his first paycheck from Weaver Industries. He framed that paycheck and even had his own business card, created proudly by his dad.

Stephen had 15 years of excellent supported living independence in a Hattie Larlham group home. He was an avid Ohio sports fan, and his room was decked out from floor to ceiling in Cleveland Browns, Cavaliers, Indians, and Ohio State Buckeyes decor. His wardrobe also reflected his beloved teams. He always tuned in to the big game on TV and watched the Cleveland Browns every Sunday during football season with family, thanks to in-laws, Tom and Jan Bowen.

Stephen was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Maryan Heilmann; grandfather, Lee Henry; aunt, Elaine Heilmann; and most importantly his father, Lance Heilmann, who not only introduced sports into Stephen’s life, but also instilled the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and the will never to give up.

Those left to keep his memory alive include his grandmother, Micheline Byron; brother, Timothy Heilmann; his supportive and loving mother, Pat Heilmann; his amazing brother-in-law, Jamie Bowen; and his fiercest advocate and sister, Christy Bowen. From an early age, Christy and Stephen formed a very unique and special bond. Her loving devotion to him was unparalleled. He also leaves behind an aunt, uncles, cousins, dear family friends, as well as a whole community of friends from Hattie Larlham, Summit DD, Weaver Industries, and Blick Clinic.

Sincerest thanks to Hattie Larlham for the exceptional care they provided Stephen to maintain his health and well-being, especially the last two years of tireless efforts during the pandemic.

Calling hours will be held Friday, April 8th from 4 to 7 PM at Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road in Stow. The family will be wearing Cleveland sports attire in honor of Stephen and encourage visitors to do the same. Private services with burial at Standing Rock Cemetery in Kent will take place.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Stephen’s honor to Hattie Larlham Foundation , 9772 Diagonal Road, Mantua, OH  44255.