Stephen Earl “Steve” Lykken of Solvang passed away peacefully on Feb. 14, 2026, surrounded by his beloved wife and family.
He was born on Dec 16, 1940, in North Hollywood, California, but spent his life in the Santa Ynez Valley, a place that had long since became his hometown.
Steve was a man whose life told a story of hard work, loyalty, and quiet generosity.
After graduating from high school, he entered the United States Air Force in 1959, where he was stationed at the newly established Vandenberg Air Force Base. He served his country with pride until his honorable discharge in 1964.
It was during this period that he began building the foundation for the life he would later share with his beloved wife Mary Ann (nee Kuelgen), a local of the Santa Ynez Valley.
The two married on July 8, 1961, beginning a partnership full of love, laughter, and mutual respect that lasted more than six decades.
In 1968, Steve opened Steve’s Wheel & Tire in Buellton. What began as a small-town business quickly became a trusted community mainstay.
Known for his no-nonsense honesty and his knack for solving any problem, Steve built a reputation that drew loyal customers and dedicated employees alike.
He was a firm but fair boss, the kind who set high standards, then worked right alongside his team to meet them.
In 2023, after 55 years of service to the Valley, Steve sold his business and retired, leaving behind a lasting legacy of reliability and integrity.
Outside of work, Steve had a passion for classic cars, especially hot rods. His pristine workshop was a testament to his attention to detail and love of craftsmanship.
He proudly collected a full line of 1940 Fords, and had a soft spot for his various 1932 Deuces, taking them to car shows and parades across California.
In 2019, he hosted “Deuces on 101” in Buellton, a car show that brought together fellow enthusiasts from all over the region. He was an active member of the LA Roadsters.
He was also an active member of the Vikings of Solvang, which he joined in 1978. He participated in their community and philanthropic endeavors over many decades.
They honored him with the prestigious Viking Ace in 2008 in recognition of the years of service which went above and beyond the call of duty.
Above all, Steve was a family man. He never missed a dinner or a family event, no matter how busy he was.
To his children, he was steadfast and loving, a man whose word carried weight but whose heart was always open. His love for Mary Ann never wavered and grew over time. He was known to bring her flowers or small gifts often.
He told her he loved her and how beautiful she was every morning.
Steve is survived by his devoted wife Mary Ann Lykken; daughters Sheri Lynn Lykken and Bobette Jean Hunstad (Darren); son Rodney Paul Lykken; sister Karen Mahr (Michael); 10 grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his son Todd Stephen Lykken, and his father and mother Earl and Bette Lykken.
Steve will be remembered for his honesty, his work ethic, and his love of family and community. Those who knew him were better for it, and his legacy will continue to roll on down the road he built with his own hands.
A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. March 14 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Ballard, followed by a barbecue hosted by the Vikings of Solvang at Rancho de Maria Park in Buellton.