Stefan Erwin Gales, 66, of Pawleys Island, SC, passed away Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home with his wife, Rhonda, by his side. Born December 19, 1957, in Gersweiler, Germany, son of Reinhold and Hildegard (Thielen) Gales. Stefan served 18 months in the German Army where he was recognized for his marksmanship. After serving in the military, he pursued a degree in electrical engineering before taking a position in Jordan for several years. Stefan later pursued his Masters in Electrical Engineering. He spent over 35 years with Grob Systems, Inc. beginning at the headquarters in Mindleheim, Germany and later in a management role in their US campus in Bluffton, Ohio. Michael Hutecker, CEO of Grob Systems, Inc. stated in a letter that Stefan was a highly respected member of their management team for many years, and that his character and dedication will not soon be forgotten. Michael said he had the pleasure of working with Stefan until his retirement and valued his compassion, thoughtfulness and determination. His optimism and positivity were characteristics to be admired.

Stefan loved living life to the fullest and earned his private pilot’s license as well as his captain’s license. He also enjoyed golf, cycling and swimming. He was a regular golfer with his friends in the Heritage Men’s Golf League as well as the Heritage Couples’ Golf League with his wife.

You could always find Stefan with a smile on his face, and a positive outlook on life. Stefan will be greatly missed, but his zest for life will live on through all those who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Gales (Pawleys Island, SC); step-children Jamie (Chicago, IL) and William McFarland (Columbus, OH). Stefan’s mother, Hildegard Gales; his brother, Gerhard (Petra) Gales; sister, Anne Praum; nephews Dominik (Julia) and Philip Gales; niece, Sabrina Praum and grandson Lorenz Gales Steibli; son-in-law, Andre Steibli; and great-nephew, Leano Gales, all reside in Germany.

Stefan was predeceased by his father Reinhold Gales, his late wife Sieglinde (Goetz) Gales and daughter Nathalie (Gales) Steibli.

A Celebration of his life with be held at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church in Pawleys Island on Friday, May 24, 2024 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his honor to The James Cancer Research Center at Ohio State University. (https://cancer.osu.edu/for-donors-and-volunteers/how-to-donate).