Stephen T. Leidenheimer D.D.S. 54, of Elyria, while at his home, departed from our presence here to go to his heavenly home on Thursday, May 21, 2026 after valiantly battling a long illness. He was born October 3, 1971 in Elyria where he was a lifelong resident. He was the owner of the Leidenheimer Dental Group located in Lorain County, where he took great pride in providing dentistry services to the community. In late 2025, his health prevented him from continuing, and he retired. After graduating from Elyria High School, class of 1990, he attended the University of Toledo and The Ohio State University School of Dentistry, class of 1998. A devoted father, husband, son, brother, friend, and co-worker, he had a strong work ethic, sense of integrity, and never wanted to let anyone down. He strived to impart this same mindset onto his two sons, who were his greatest joy in life. In high school, he played the alto saxophone. When his sons joined the band, he loved to share stories with them about his time spent in the band and he became an active member of the Band Boosters, chaperoning many events and donating new equipment. Steve enjoyed the simple things in life, such as nature and sitting around a fire pit and enjoying good conversation with anyone gathered there. He never missed an Ohio State football game and enjoyed attending the games in person whenever he could. Attending concerts was one of his favorite pastimes and he was very happy he was able to go to the Andrea Bocelli concert earlier this year. Watching historical movies was something he often did as he was very patriotic. Throughout the time that he endured many health issues, he displayed courage and he sought to strengthen his faith in the Lord, his Savior. Left behind to treasure his memory are his loving wife of twenty-four years; Holly A. (nee: Blaner), two sons; Matthew Stephen and Jonathan Alan Leidenheimer both of Elyria. Additional family includes his mother; Diane Leidenheimer (nee: Wence) of Elyria, and a brother Eric Leidenheimer (Lisa) of North Ridgeville. Steve was preceded in death by his father; Thomas Leidenheimer. The family will receive friends 4-7 PM Thursday, May 28, 2026 at The Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. Elyria, OH. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Monday, June 1, 2026 at St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave. Elyria. The Reverend Father Charles T. Diedrick, Pastor will be the Celebrant. Please meet at church. Burial will be private at St. Joseph Cemetery in Avon. To honor Steve’s memory, contributions would be welcomed for any of the following: a donation for Matthew and Jonathan’s college education, the Elyria High School Band Boosters, or an organization of your own choosing. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com