Herbert Lee Stein, 86, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 16, surrounded by his wife and children.
Funeral services were held on July 20 at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in the Yukon Chapel, followed by burial.
Herb was born on May 28, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri, to the late Morris and Fannie Stein. He graduated from Paseo High School in 1959 before earning a degree in accounting from Kansas City Business College. On June 23, 1963, he married the love of his life, Alice (née Katzeff). Together they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage, building a home centered around family traditions and Jewish values.
As Herb and Alice raised their three children, they cherished taking family vacations, often piling into the family’s red station wagon and driving across the country together.
As a professional accountant, Herb served as controller at Feld Chevrolet for more than 20 years before continuing in similar roles at other Kansas City-area automobile dealerships. Additionally, he operated his own tax preparation and bookkeeping service for over four decades, helping countless individuals, families and small businesses with trusted advice and personal attention. His integrity and dependability earned the respect of clients, colleagues and friends.
Herb was a longtime member of Congregation Beth Shalom. As a young adult, he served as a BBYO advisor, mentoring Jewish youth and fostering lifelong friendships. He served as treasurer of Boy Scout Troop 61 and roasted the turkeys at the annual November Turkey Hike. In recognition of his exceptional service, he received the Shofar Award and was inducted into the Tribe of Mic-O-Say as an Honorary Warrior.
Outside of work and volunteer service, Herb was a lifelong New York Yankees, Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Chiefs fan. A trip to a baseball game wasn’t complete without his small AM radio and single earphone, allowing him to watch the action on the field while listening to the live radio broadcast. He also enjoyed listening to talk radio, working on jigsaw puzzles and playing sudoku. In his younger years, Herb and Alice bowled together in a league at King Louie.
Herb was known for his warm heart, kind spirit and unmistakably dry wit. He found comfort in the simple routines of life. He always had a recliner where he could watch television or settle in for another late night.
Above all, Herb was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his family and celebrating their accomplishments. His steady presence, quiet wisdom and unconditional love will remain a lasting gift to those who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Morris and Fannie Stein, and his brothers, Albert Stein and Bernard Stein.
Herb is survived by his beloved wife, Alice; his dedicated children, Eric (Kathy) Stein of Wilmette, Illinois, Jennifer (Tom) Goedeke of Chesterfield, Missouri, and Adam (Paula Mahayosnand) Stein of Jersey City, New Jersey; his cherished grandchildren, Zach and Daniel Stein, Jessica and Trace Goedeke, and Isabella and Kaya Stein; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Debbie and Steve Mack; and many nieces and nephews.
The family is deeply grateful for the love, friendship and support shown to Herb throughout his lifetime. His memory will forever be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, those who would like to honor Herb’s memory are invited to make a contribution to Congregation Beth Shalom, Kansas City Hospice House or to a charity of their choice.
Online condolences may be left for the family at louismemorialchapel.com.