Stephen Freeman Hinchliffe Jr.

July 18, 1933 - December 9, 2025 Stephen F. Hinchliffe Jr., a respected Los Angeles business executive, generous philanthropist, and dedicated civic leader, died peacefully and surrounded by family on December 9, 2025, at age 92. His distinguished career spanned corporate leadership and decades of service to many of Southern California's leading cultural and nonprofit institutions. Known for his integrity, mentorship, strategic insight, and deep commitment to expanding access to the arts and education, Steve leaves a lasting imprint on the region he loved.
A Los Angeles native, Steve was born on July 18, 1933, to Stephen F. Hinchliffe, Sr. and Katherine Gruettner Hinchliffe, and was raised in Hermosa Beach. Steve showed early entrepreneurial talents-selling Fuller Brush and Watkins products door-to-door-and a powerful competitive drive. Before turning 19, he earned four national titles as the United States Junior National Badminton Champion: Boys' Singles and Boys' Doubles in 1950, and Boys' Singles and Mixed Doubles in 1951.
Steve graduated from Occidental College in 1955 with a Bachelor of Arts in economics and later received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and service. At Oxy he met Ann Hoffmann, the love of his life. They married soon after, and she graduated early to join him at Harvard Business School, where he earned his MBA "with distinction" in 1957.
After three years as a lieutenant in the United States Army, Steve returned to Los Angeles to begin his professional career at McKinsey & Company. In 1964, in what he often called the boldest decision of his career, he left McKinsey to partner with Merle H. Banta in founding The Leisure Group, Inc. (later becoming BHH Management, Inc.), a manufacturer of consumer products. Their partnership lasted more than 50 years, until Steve's retirement at age 85.
Although he served on corporate boards, Steve was most proud of his leadership in the nonprofit sector. He chaired the boards of the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA, Center Theatre Group, the Board of Trustees of Occidental College, The Employers Group, and the Independent Colleges of Southern California. His steady leadership and philanthropy helped guide these organizations through periods of growth and change, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.
Outside the boardroom, Steve treasured his time on Catalina Island and in Mammoth and pursued his wide-ranging interests with characteristic discipline and enthusiasm. He enjoyed studying World War II history, practicing magic-eventually earning membership in the Magic Castle-and restoring machinery of all kinds, from kit cars to antique popcorn and slot machines, often alongside his brother Doug.
Above all, Steve was devoted to his family. He relished gatherings near and far, and nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. His sharp intellect, steady guidance, humor, and love of life will be profoundly missed.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Ann Hinchliffe; daughter Lisa Hinchliffe Link (Dave); sons Stephen F. Hinchliffe III (Terry) and John Hinchliffe; four grandchildren-Andy Link (Sarah), Ryan Link, Mackenzie Hinchliffe, and Katelyn Hinchliffe-and his great-granddaughter, Stevie Rae Link. He is also survived by his brothers Bruce (Sandra) and Doug (Robin), along with many beloved relatives and friends.
A private celebration of Steve's life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA or one of Steve's other cherished charities.