We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, thoughts, and prayers for our beloved Jeff. Your love, compassion, and care have been a source of comfort and warmth during this extremely difficult time for our family. We are thankful for the many thoughtful things that have been done for us, and please accept our heartfelt thanks.
Please find below the obituary for Jeff Stich that will be in the Contra Costa Times starting tomorrow, Thursday, September 17, 2015.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thank you and love,
The Stich Family
JEFFREY JOHN STICH
April 14, 1959 - September 6, 2015
Resident of Concord
Jeffrey John Stich passed away, doing what he loved, on September 6th, due to a tragic accident at Calistoga Speedway. He was 56 years old. Born on April 14, 1959, Jeff was the beloved son of Jerry and Nancy Stich of Concord. He attended South San Francisco High School and was a resident of Concord for 39 years.
Jeff spent 40 years working for the family businesses. For the last 17 years, he was the General Manager of Clayton Valley Auto Service in Concord, which he owned with his parents. Prior to that, Jeff worked with his parents and brother at Don & Jerry’s Automotive in South San Francisco.
An adoring father, son, and brother, Jeff most cherished his time with his family and at the racetrack, his second home. He was an accomplished pit crew member of the USAC and NHRA championship racing teams, and was part of the world’s fastest sprint car team of Damion Gardner, who was recently clocked at more than 200 MPH at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Committed to his community and craft, Jeff was a Board of Directors member and representative for more than a decade; he had also served as Chapter 20 President of the Automotive Service Council. When not at the racetrack or shop, Jeff could be found exploring the peninsula with his daughter, Brittany, or traveling stateside and abroad.
Jeff is survived by his beloved daughter, Brittany Stich, and parents, Jerry and Nancy Stich. He is a cherished brother of Gary & Sandy Stich, Jim & Kathy Szuch, and John & Diane Stich; a caring uncle to Gregg, Branden, Jerrod, Nicole, Danielle, and Melina; and a treasured friend to Laura Stich. Jeff will be deeply missed by his dear significant other, Marlene Sawers, and her daughter, Amanda Harbarth.
Jeff touched many lives through his kindheartedness, giving spirit, and warm smile. He was always doing for others, usually with his sunflower seeds and furry friend, Shea, in tow. He will be remembered for his unmatched generosity, gentle demeanor, strong work ethic, selflessness, and tremendous love for his family, friends, and car racing. Jeff will be missed immensely, and it is heartwarming to know that he will live on through organ donation, a miracle reflective of his character and spirit.
Family and friends whose lives have been touched by Jeff are invited to attend a celebration of his life on Sunday, November 15th. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations, which can be made on an online giving site being organized in memory and honor of Jeff.
