Stephen Louis Colucci

December 25, 1944 – April 26, 2025

Dr. Stephen Louis Colucci, a brilliant physicist, pioneering entrepreneur, and deeply devoted father and grandfather, passed away peacefully in Prospect, Kentucky, on April 26, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born on Christmas Day in 1944 in Rochester, New York, Stephen was endlessly curious and driven from a young age. He earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Notre Dame in 1975 and spent his life at the intersection of science, technology, and education. Over the course of his career, he served as a researcher, professor, inventor, and CEO — notably founding and leading companies such as Tenex Computer Express and Interact Medical. He was the holder of four U.S. patents and helped revolutionize both consumer technology and healthcare education through his work.

In retirement, Stephen explored new creative passions — including acting. He appeared as an extra in several Hallmark movies and took on featured roles in a handful of independent films, embracing each opportunity with the same curiosity and enthusiasm that defined his career.

But for all his accomplishments, it was family that brought Stephen his greatest joy. He was a proud and loving father to Dan Colucci and Rya Williams, and a devoted grandfather to Emily, Alex, Emma, and Caden — each of whom brought him laughter, purpose, and pride. He is also remembered with deep affection by the many friends who became like family over the years.

Stephen is survived by his children, Dan Colucci and Rya Williams; his grandchildren, Emily, Alex, Emma, and Caden; his son-in-law, Scot Williams; and Rya’s and Dan’s mother, Lida Petruniak.

Stephen’s legacy will live on not just in the institutions he helped shape, but in the lives he touched — as a scientist, a storyteller, and above all, a father and friend.