Stephen Randall Kolstad

Stephen Randall Kolstad, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud public servant, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and selflessness. He was 73 years old.

Born on October 8, 1951, in Long Beach, California, Steve was raised in Lakewood, where his deep roots and strong community ties began. He was the son of Elvin Leonard and Mildred Marie Kolstad, and grew up on Monogram Avenue alongside his siblings—Susan, James Michael, and Jeanne Anne. His childhood was filled with neighborhood friends, football games, beach days, and a growing love for cars, fishing, and surfing.

Steve attended Saint Maria Goretti, Saint John Bosco, and graduated from Lakewood High School in 1969. His love for his hometown remained steadfast throughout his life.

Motivated by duty and conviction, Steve voluntarily enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam as a Crew Chief in the 101st Airborne. He maintained helicopters, operated door-mounted M60 machine guns, and ensured the safety of his crew during critical missions. One of his cherished memories from his time in service was attending the Bob Hope USO Christmas Show in 1971 in Long Binh, where he had the rare opportunity to meet Bob Hope backstage—thanks to his cousin Marlene, who worked with the USO Tour. While in the Army, Steve was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his honorable service.

In 1965, his life changed forever when Teresa moved in across the street. That childhood friendship blossomed into a lifelong love. Steve and Teresa were married on November 20, 1976, and together built a beautiful life anchored in love, faith, and family.

In 1979, Steve began what would become a remarkable 41-year career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. He cherished the camaraderie of his station crews, especially the days outside of the station spent deep sea fishing or sharing laughs at the beach.

Steve loved being outdoors—whether camping in the Sierras, skiing, or sharing "bear stories" from his many adventures. He had a gift for storytelling that made everyone feel like part of the adventure.

Above all, Steve loved God and his family. He was a devoted father to Julie Kristina Kolstad Larson and Christopher Stephen Kolstad, and a proud “Papa Steve” to his five grandchildren: Kent (11), Owen (8), Logan Joy (7), Ford (7) and Locke (6). He relished the simple joys—coffee in hand, surrounded by grandkids visiting the station, or catching up with family and friends in the city he so dearly loved.

Even as his health declined following a diagnosis of Frontotemporal Dementia shortly after retirement in 2021, Steve’s enduring spirit and love remained evident. Though the disease took much from him and those who loved him, it could never erase the impact he made as a father, grandfather, husband, friend, firefighter, and veteran.

Steve is survived by his loving wife Teresa, his children Julie and Christopher, his daughter-in-law Katie, son-in-law Eric and his treasured grandchildren.

Steve Kolstad was a man of integrity, faith, and quiet heroism. His unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community will live on in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.

May he rest in peace, knowing he made the world a better, safer, and more loving place.