Sylvan Earl Stephani, 71, of Minnetonka, passed away on Monday, Jan. 24, after a courageous battle with ALS, keeping his wit, humor & faith throughout.

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

A successful businessman, Sylvan accomplished much in his life. He served in the Army and reserves. He and his family lived in several locations in the US, Australia and England. Sylvan enjoyed travel, making it to all seven continents. In his later years, Sylvan enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going to Twins & Vikings games, golfing and road trips with Kathy. Sylvan was also active in his church.

Sylvan is preceded in death by his father, Alfred Stephani; brother Duane.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathleen; mother, Florence of Austin; daughter Julienne Dunlop (Lachlan); son, Robert; daughter Cheryl; grandchildren, Andrea, Nicole, Lauren, Paris and Gabrielle; great-grandchildren Kailyn and Delaney; brothers, Joseph, John, James; sisters Juanita, Mary, Veronica, Patricia, Theresa and Sharon.

Mass of the Resurrection: 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 28, at Saint Therese Catholic Church, 18323 Minnetonka Blvd, Deephaven, MN 55391 (952 473 4422). Visitation 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Huber Funeral Home Chapel, 520 2nd Street, Excelsior and the hour prior to Mass on Friday at the Church. Interment: Resurrection Cemetery, Shorewood, Minn. Memorials are preffered to the ALS Association http://webmn.alsa.org.

Huber Funeral & Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.