Stephen Carl Zill

Stephen Carl Zill, a longtime resident of San Jose, CA, passed away on March 4, 2026, at the age of 62, following a courageous year-and-a-half battle with glioblastoma.

Stephen was born on November 11, 1963, in Detroit, MI, to Ronald Stephen and Sue Ann (née Kickland) Zill. He spent his early childhood in Highland Park before his family moved to Royal Oak, where he graduated from Kimball High School.

Stephen went on to attend San Jose State University, a place that would help shape the course of his life and career. He became a respected professor of economics, a longtime instructor at De Anza College, and also taught at West Valley College. For many years, Stephen dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his students and his discipline, teaching up until just three weeks before his passing. His commitment to his work was extraordinary-he missed only two days of teaching in nearly two decades. Economics was not simply his profession; it was his passion. He found genuine joy in helping students understand the forces that shape the world and was admired for both his intellect and his unwavering work ethic.

Outside of the classroom, Stephen was a devoted sports fan who never lost his love for his hometown teams. Though he made his life in California, his heart remained loyal to Detroit sports. He was also a lifelong lover of music, with tastes spanning genres but rooted most deeply in rock and roll. His all-time favorite artist was Richard Thompson, whom he saw perform live many times over the years-concerts that brought him immense happiness.

Stephen is survived by his loving siblings, Cathy LeVack, Ronald Zill, and Lisa (Todd) Noorman; his nephews, David LeVack, Joseph (Irene Zwanink) LeVack, Landon Noorman, and Brayden Noorman; and numerous cousins and extended family members. He is also survived by his aunt, Judith Stolzenfeld, who became like a second mother to him following the passing of his own mother; and by his stepmother, Gail Zill.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald Stephen Zill and Sue Ann Zill.

A memorial service will be held in the future. Details are pending.