It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Patrick J. “JAR” Stephens, a beloved brother, mentor, and friend whose life and legacy are forever woven into the fabric of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. Pat pledged the Epsilon Iota Chapter at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse in the spring of 1967, and from that moment forward devoted himself wholeheartedly to the growth, strength, and spirit of the chapter—locally, regionally, and nationally.

Affectionately known as JAR to brothers near and far, Pat was instrumental in the development and building of Epsilon Iota and remained its steadfast champion for more than five decades. He served as Alumni Corporation Board President for 52 years, provided leadership as a District Governor for the Great Lakes Region, and represented the Delta Sigma Phi nationwide as a Grand Council Member and Foundation Board Trustee at the National level. His service was tireless, selfless, and rooted in a deep love for the Fraternity and the people within it.

Pat’s impact was recognized through numerous honors, including the Pat Stephens Alumni Award, the Mr. Epsilon Iota Award—the highest honor at the local level—the Hebert Award, and Mr. Delta Sig Award, the Fraternity’s highest National distinction. Yet it was never the accolades that defined Pat; it was the way he showed up, time and again, for others. As National President John Jenkins, Virginia ‘84, reflected, “Pat lived the Delta Sigma Phi values of culture, harmony, and friendship. His lifetime commitment to our young men and alumni will be missed as he has crossed into the Bond Eternal. I hope his example inspires others to rededicate themselves to our great Fraternity.”

Those who worked alongside Pat often spoke not only of his dedication, but of the warmth and joy he brought to every interaction. Executive Director Phil Rodriguez, Illinois State ‘03, shared that “from the very first moment I met Pat and Joanne Stephens, I was overwhelmed by their energy, joy, and genuine love for Delta Sigma Phi. Since that first meeting, I have had the amazing blessing to witness time and time again Pat's dedication to our Fraternity, his family and his community. He is a true example of what a Fraternity man is. Pat's impact and legacy is one that will live on forever within Delta Sigma Phi and he will be forever missed.”

Many words have been used to describe who Pat Stephens was and what he meant to the fraternity world and the greater community: heart and soul, greatest mentor, best friend. One brother captured it perfectly when he wrote simply, “Pat was the best of us.” His guidance, loyalty, humility, and love will continue to shape generations of Delta Sigs to come. He will be missed beyond measure, but his legacy will endure in every brother he mentored and every life he touched.

YITBOS, Brother Pat.