.Stefani Katherine Czuchlewski ("Stef") was born on Feb 6, 1944, in the Washington, DC, area, where her father was engaged in chemical research in support of the Manhattan Project. The family moved to locations in New Jersey and Staten Island before settling in Vestal, NY, in the late 50's. Stef graduated from Vestal HS in 1961 and began study at Harpur College (now SUNY Binghamton), from which she received a BA in Classics in 1965.

Stefani entered Yale University to pursue work toward a unique MAT degree which prepared graduates with bachelor's degrees for careers in teaching, which she received in 1966. There she met her future husband, Stephen Czuchlewski, who was studying for a doctorate in physics. They married in the St Thomas More chapel on July 19, 1969, incidentally, the day before astronauts first stepped on the moon.

The couple lived in New Haven, CT and Stefani began her career by teaching Latin and French at an inner-city New Haven HS. Steve and Stef moved to Los Alamos, NM, in 1975, when he began a long physics research career at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Son, Richard, was born on Nov 1, 1975. Stef assisted teachers in the LA grade school, often helping with science fairs. An increasing interest in computers led to her becoming the project leader of the computer applications group at the DOE LA Area office.

The family moved to Rio Rancho in 2011 to more easily enjoy activities such as theater and the Philharmonic. Stef volunteered at her church, assisting those in need with food and clothing. This summer, Steve and Stef began transitioning into residence in the La Vida Llena Life Community. Deteriorating health from cancer and an infection led to Stef passing away during palliative care on Dec 10.

Stefani is survived by her husband of 56 years, Stephen Czuchlewski as well as their son, Richard (Amy) Czuchlewski and granddaughter Megan Czuchlewski. She is preceded in death by her parents Steven and Lucille Levinos, and her brother Joseph Levinos.

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with a eulogy to begin at 10:40 am, at the Church of the Incarnation Catholic Church, 2309 Monterrey Rd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144, with a reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Arthritis Foundation or St. Vincent de Paul