Prominent Los Angeles Business Leader Stephen F. Hinchliffe Jr. Passes Away

Stephen F. Hinchliffe Jr., a well-respected business executive, philanthropist, and civic leader from Los Angeles, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, at the age of 92. Surrounded by family, he leaves behind a legacy marked by his commitment to corporate leadership and extensive service to Southern California’s cultural and nonprofit sectors.

Born on July 18, 1933, in Los Angeles to Stephen F. Hinchliffe, Sr. and Katherine Gruettner Hinchliffe, Steve grew up in Hermosa Beach. His entrepreneurial spirit emerged early, as he sold products door-to-door, demonstrating a competitive drive that would define his later achievements. Before turning 19, he secured four national titles as the United States Junior National Badminton Champion in Boys’ Singles and Doubles in 1950, and in Boys’ Singles and Mixed Doubles in 1951.

Steve earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Occidental College in 1955. His contributions to the institution were later recognized with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree. At Occidental, he met Ann Hoffmann, whom he married shortly after graduation. They later moved to Harvard Business School, where Steve earned his MBA “with distinction” in 1957.

Following a three-year tenure as a lieutenant in the United States Army, Steve returned to Los Angeles and began his career at McKinsey & Company. In 1964, he made a pivotal decision to co-found The Leisure Group, Inc., which later became BHH Management, Inc. This partnership with Merle H. Banta would last over 50 years until Steve’s retirement at age 85.

While active in corporate governance, Steve’s passion lay in nonprofit leadership. He chaired boards for numerous organizations, including the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA, Center Theatre Group, and the Board of Trustees at Occidental College. His guidance and philanthropy were instrumental during transformative periods for these institutions, ensuring their growth and sustainability.

Outside of his professional commitments, Steve cherished time spent on Catalina Island and in Mammoth. He pursued a variety of interests, including studying World War II history, practicing magic—where he earned membership in the Magic Castle—and restoring machinery, often collaborating with his brother Doug.

Steve’s greatest joy came from his family. He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Ann Hinchliffe; their daughter, Lisa Hinchliffe Link (Dave); sons Stephen F. Hinchliffe III (Terry) and John Hinchliffe; along with four grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. His family reflects the love and dedication he brought to every aspect of his life.

A private celebration of Steve’s life is scheduled for January 10, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA or to one of the many charities Steve supported throughout his life.

Steve Hinchliffe’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the institutions he helped strengthen.