Andrew Jack Stephan

   Andrew Jack Stephan, 34, of Rathdrum, Idaho, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025.

   He was born on June 7, 1991, in Livingston, Montana, to Donald and Heidi Stephan.

   Andrew came into this world holding his head up and looking around—13 pounds, 31⁄4 ounces, and 24 inches long—ready to take on the world. Andrew was everybody’s best friend. If he loved you, he loved and protected you for life. He gave the best hugs—nowhere ever felt safer.

   A giant of a man—6’5”, 365 lbs, and covered in tattoos—he might have looked intimidating, but to those who knew him, he was simply a big teddy bear with a heart bigger than the world. Andrew had a tender soul and cared so deeply. He was the cutest little boy, the sweetest spirit, and he adored his family—especially his sister and his grandparents.

   Having Vanessa as his wife made Andrew so happy and proud. He was deeply in love with her, and he loved her children as if they were his own. They loved him just as deeply in return.

   Andrew shared his dad’s lifelong love for the Denver Broncos—calling them the “Never Broncos” when he was little. He also had a passion for shoes, especially Jordans, and wore his size 14s with pride. In his words, he was always “fresh”—always sharp, always smelling good, always so handsome.

   He loved camping and dreamed of taking the boys fishing. He loved music, good food, dogs, and kids—and dogs and kids loved him back. Most importantly, Andrew loved the Lord.

   Andrew’s young adult years were marked by struggles, and he spent much of that time in prison. But on July 25, 2025, he was released, full of hope, determination, and big dreams for the future with his little family. He was excited to begin truck driving school in October to earn his CDL. But just two months later, on September 25, our Andrew's life was tragically cut short by a fentanyl overdose after being clean for 20 months.

   Though our hearts are shattered, Andrew’s story is one of love, resilience, and the hope he carried for a brighter future. He would want all of us to love each other as fiercely as he loved us.

   Andrew is survived by his parents, Heidi Wilmer and Donald Stephan; his sister, Ellie Stephan; his grandparents, Donna and Izzy Melendez and Art Wilmer; his beloved wife, Vanessa Stephan; and his cherished stepchildren, Phoenix, Savina, Marcelo, and Lazarus.

Andrew will be forever missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 4th at 12 p.m. at The Altar Church in CDA. 901 E Best Ave, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814.