Stephen Lee Holst

Steve’s eyes would light up when talking about the 1956 Studebaker he restored. Classic cars were his first love. Studying ancient Egypt was another great passion. He enjoyed travel and history. Trips almost always included a museum or car show – even better if both!

Steve was born in Glendale, California, on January 17, 1942, to EV Holst and Bettie (Goodman) Holst. He spent most of his life in California but also lived in Saudi Arabia as a youth while his father worked as an engineer. Pat and Steve lived in Denmark while he worked for Novo Nordisk, and later in New York, and Massachusetts. After retiring, Pat and Steve moved to Sedona, AZ to escape snow shoveling.

After graduation from La Puente High School, Steve received a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from CSULA. His career was spent in the pharmaceutical industry. He holds a patent for the stabilization of AHF, a treatment for hemophilia.

Steve met Pat at La Puente High School in 1956, and they were married in January, 1964. Their daughter, Paige, was born in November that year. Steve was active with Paige‘s Girl Scout Troop, taking them on hikes and camping trips. He also served on the local Girl Scout council board of directors and on the outdoor program committee. Paige, Pat, and Steve often traveled together throughout the US and Europe. He was a member of the Sedona Car Club, Datsun Roadster Owners of New England, and Studebaker Drivers Club. He supported numerous organizations, including MDHCA, ISAC at the University of Chicago, ARCE, and others.

He will be remembered for his dry sense of humor, knowledge, and curiosity. He was a great storyteller and could really “spin a yarn”, almost always including a bit of history.

Steve passed away peacefully at home on December 5, 2025, in Sedona, Arizona, with Pat and Paige by his side. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to your favorite charity.