66 Years of Adventure, Friendship, Laughter, and a Life Well Lived

Jeffrey Dean Stevenson, 66, of Palm Bay, Florida, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at his home.

Jeff was born on February 15, 1960, in Clinton, Iowa, to the late Robert L. Stevenson and Vicki Mahan. He graduated from Camanche High School in 1978.  Following graduation, Jeff continued his education and earned several degrees and professional certification in motorcycle mechanics, further developing his knowledge, skills and expertise in a field that would become not only his career but one of his greatest lifelong passions.

From a very young age, Jeff had an incredible work ethic and an adventurous spirit. At just 13 years old, he began working as a dishwasher at the Plaza Café in Clinton, Iowa. Little did anyone know that this hardworking young boy would go on to live a life filled with adventure, accomplishments, and countless friendships.

A Life Fueled by Passion and Adventure

Jeff’s love for motorcycles began before he was even old enough to attend kindergarten. What started as a childhood fascination quickly became a lifelong passion for dirt bikes, motocross, and everything motorsports.  A member of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) for over 50 years, Jeff spent countless weekends competing in motocross races across the country. His dedication, talent, and competitive spirit earned him hundreds of trophies and numerous victories.  Jeff earned his way into the Professional Motorcross Class Racing into the 250 and 500 Division earning his AMA National Number 79.  Motorcycles weren’t simply a hobby for Jeff, they were a way of life.

His father owned and operated Clinton Yamaha and Kawasaki, where Jeff spent many years as the lead mechanic. Following in his father’s footsteps, Jeff eventually opened and operated his own motorcycle business, Action Cycle, where he continued doing what he loved.  Jeff later moved to Jupiter, Florida, where he worked at Jupiter Cycle before purchasing the business and renaming it Surf City Sports. He successfully operated the shop for several years, building not only a business but lasting relationships with fellow motorsports enthusiasts.  Never one to sit still, Jeff discovered another passion: Jet Ski Racing.  He competed in IJSBA races throughout the Florida Keys, often traveling with a group of close friends from Jupiter to Key West to enjoy several weekends of racing, laughter and unforgettable memories.  For Jeff, it wasn’t always about winning the race, it was about the friendships, the adventures, and the memories made along the way.

A Career He Truly Loved

Jeff eventually found what he considered his dream job with Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), where he dedicated 16 years of service. He was a highly valued, respected, and trusted employee who took great pride in his work.  Although based in Florida, his position allowed him to travel to Canada on numerous occasions, working with the company’s snowmobile division.

Sadly, Jeff’s career was cut short following a long and devastating battle with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a serious illness that dramatically changed his life. The disease affected his entire body, leaving him with limited use of his hands and a loss of feeling in his feet. But anyone who knew Jeff knew he was not someone who gave up easily.  Through incredible determination, hard work, and perseverance, Jeff fought to regain some of his independence and mobility.  Eventually, he was able to return to part-time work at Route 1 Motorsports and, perhaps most importantly to him, get back to riding his motorcycles, four-wheelers, and side-by-sides. The things that had always brought him so much happiness were once again part of his life.

A Brother, a Best Friend, and Someone You Could Never Forget

One of the most special relationships in Jeff’s life was the bond he shared with his sister, Lisa.  Growing up, Jeff and Lisa were more than brother and sister. They were best friends. They shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, adventures and a deep love and respect for one another. Lisa adored her big brother and always held him on a pedestal. To her, Jeff wasn’t just her brother, he was someone she admired, respected, looked up to, and loved beyond words.  Their bond was one that time, distance, or life’s challenges could never break.

A Friend to Everyone, a Stranger to No One

If there was one thing Jeff was known for beyond his love of motorsports, it was his remarkable ability to make friends wherever he went. From Iowa to Florida and everywhere in between, Jeff collected lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. He was the kind of person who could go months or even years without seeing someone, yet when they reunited, the conversation would pick up right where it left off.  Jeff didn’t need to speak to someone every day to remain a true friend.  He had a gift for making people feel welcome, appreciated, and comfortable. He never seemed to meet a stranger, and it was rare to hear anyone speak an unkind word about him.  Jeff could walk into a room and instantly LIGHT IT UP with his infectious personality, entertaining stories, quick wit and love of a good conversation.  He was always ready for an adventure, always had a story to tell, and always knew how to make people laugh.  The friendships he built throughout his lifetime are a testament to the kind of man he was.

Forever Loved, Never Forgotten

Jeff is survived by his loving sister, Lisa Griffin, who adored him beyond measure; his beloved dog and faithful companion, Mako; his aunts: Laurel Sherwood of Roseburg, Oregon, Trudy (Joel) Masden of Warsaw, Missouri, and Barbara Stevenson of Clinton, Iowa; his nephew, Taylor Murray of North Liberty, Iowa; his cousins: Mitchell (Angie) Sherwood and Melissa Sherwood of Roseburg, Oregon; along with numerous other cousins, extended family members, and countless dear friends.

Jeff lived a life filled with passion, determination, adventure, and friendship. He faced challenges that would have defeated many, yet he continued to find ways to enjoy the things he loved.  He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, racing memories, laughter, and friendships that will continue to live on through everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Although his final race has been run, the memories he created and the lives he touched will carry his spirit across the finish line forever.

Ride free, Jeff. Until we meet again. ❤️

Celebration of Life – Condolences

A Celebration of Life is being planned and will be posted ASAP.   Those wishing to send condolences, share a favorite memory, or tell a story about Jeff are encouraged to visit his memorial page through Millennium Cremation Service: www.millenniumcremationservice.com