Obituary:

Stephen Viani Amundson “Proper lighting can change the world.” This quote from Stephen Viani Amundson captures his kind spirit and enthusiasm for bringing light into the world through his love of music, performing arts, and creative design. Stephen was a vibrant brother, son, and friend to many, always ready with a kind word of encouragement and warm smile. His bright blue eyes and golden blond hair stole many hearts and beckoned the adoration of everyone who spent time in his loving company. In addition to his outgoing and receptive nature, Stephen was also respected for his quiet and reserved manner and sense of contentment, simplicity and humility. Stephen had the unique ability to offer deep insight and reflection into seemingly complicated situations. A resident of Stockton and alumni of Lincoln High School, his keen aptitude and capacity for higher education is reflected in his bachelor’s degree from California State University of Northridge in Music Performance (clarinet) and the remarkable accomplishment of his Eagle Scout Award. Stephen was a brilliant musician and an esteemed clarinetist. His music transcended the notes he played and opened the hearts of everyone who was graced by his compositions. Stephen was an active theatrical contributor, creative designer, lighting director, and board member of Changing Faces Theater Company and Dimensions Theater Project. In the spirit of William Shakespeare’s conception of the performing arts, Stephen held strongly that “All the world’s a stage and all the men and women merely players.” To this effect, Stephen took great joy in helping to create an environment where the set, the actors, and the audience could join together for the purpose of experiencing the thrill of live theater and musical performances. Stephen was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Julianne Amundson. He is survived by his brothers Gregory Amundson of Santa Cruz, Erik Amundson (Christina) of Arizona, and Mark Amundson (Christine) of Stockton, and his uncles Nick Viani (Sooney) of Oregon and George Amundson (Karen) of Texas. His brothers and many friends will always cherish his bright smile, shining blue eyes, and warm welcoming heart.

“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world” (John 1:9).

Services: Memorial Service Thursday, September 2, 11:00 a.m. at DeYoung Memorial Chapel, 601 N. California Street, Stockton, followed by lunch at 12:00 p.m. in the DeYoung community room. Memorials may be sent to: Changing Faces Theater Company P.O. Box 1073 Lodi, CA 95241 www.ChangingFacesTheater.org/donate