Obituary of G Michael Stevens

G Michael Stevens ("Mike") passed away suddenly on February 28, 2023 while doing what he loved most, boating in the Caribbean with Leila, his wife of over 26 years, and close friends.

Mike was born in Syracuse, New York to Dr. William and Sallie Stevens. He was the third of four children, and their only son. His childhood years were spent in DeWitt, New York, and many summers at Camp Dudley in the Adirondacks, one of his favorite places on earth. His relationship with the camp was lifelong, and in his adult years included a term on the board of directors.

Mike attended Jamesville-Dewitt Schools and graduated from Northfield Mount Hermon High School. He matriculated at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York, graduating in 1984. He was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, and in his senior year, he was chosen by his peers to serve as a student trustee. It was shortly after his graduation that he met Leila Garrett, a William Smith student. Twelve years later, they married at Camp Dudley in Westport, New York.

Mike had a storied career. After a short stint as a Radio Market Analyst at Katz Media Group, he went on to work at Equitable Financial, managing the MLB's first-ever corporate sponsorship program. In 1990, he began a nearly nine-year career at the NBA, where he became the Vice President of Marketing Partnerships by 1995. Following his success there, he became employee #148 at eBay and launched its sports business.

In 2003 he transitioned, serving as the Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing at the Washington Commanders. After 3 years in Virginia, he returned with his family to CT, accepting the position of Chief Marketing Officer of the New York Football Giants. He held that position until 2019 and was fortunate to be a part of the team when they won 2 Super Bowls.

After leaving the Giants, Mike became the Chief Executive Officer of Impressio.tech, a materials science innovator. Additionally, he led MS2 Ventures LLC, an advisory and investment firm, and was an advisor to Footprint International, a company dedicated to creating sustainable packaging. He also served on several boards. In July 2022, he graduated from the Global Executive Leadership Program (GELP) at the Yale School of Management.

Whenever he had the opportunity, Mike could be found on his boat, "Willow," with family and friends. He was happiest out on the water exploring the harbors, coves, and islands of the Long Island Sound. He was a member of the Darien Boat Club, and in recent years, the Noroton Yacht Club.

As much as he loved boating, his family always came first. He was a devoted husband and an engaged father, son, and brother. He cherished his four-legged companion, who, of course, was named "Dudley." He attended every one of his children's lacrosse games and diving meets that he could. His pride in his family was evident any time he spoke of them. His beaming smile and hearty laugh were legendary.

He was known for his sense of humor, his loyalty, and his generosity. He was frequently consulted because of his sports business experience, and he would always make time to take a phone call to assist anyone seeking his expertise. He endeavored to help those around him flourish. Mike was a consummate networker and many of his relationships with colleagues and friends lasted for decades. For someone with so many remarkable accomplishments, he was exceedingly humble.

Mike leaves behind his wife, Dr. Leila Garrett-Stevens, and his two children, William and Owen. He is predeceased by his father, Dr. William Stevens. He is survived by his mother, Sallie Stevens, and his three sisters, Kristin Stevens, Stephanie Stevens, and Heather Clayton (Carter), as well as six nieces, Erin Tippett (Brian), Emily and Ella Clayton, Sarah (Adrian) and Charlotte Robinson, and Mallory O'Shea, and one nephew, Tristan O'Shea.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, March 31, 2023, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road in Darien. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 1, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the United Church of Rowayton, 210 Rowayton Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06853. With a reception to follow at the Country Club of Darien. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Camp Dudley, Westport, NY, https://www.campdudley.org/givenow/ in Mike's name.