Stephen F. Hinchliffe Jr., a highly regarded business executive and philanthropist from Los Angeles, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, at the age of 92. Surrounded by family, Hinchliffe left a legacy marked by a distinguished career in corporate leadership and extensive contributions to Southern California’s cultural and nonprofit sectors.
Born on July 18, 1933, in Los Angeles, Hinchliffe grew up in Hermosa Beach. He displayed entrepreneurial skills at a young age, selling products door-to-door and competing fiercely in sports. By the age of 19, he had secured four national titles as the United States Junior National Badminton Champion, showcasing his competitive spirit early on.
A Distinguished Career and Philanthropic Legacy
Hinchliffe graduated from Occidental College in 1955 with a Bachelor of Arts in economics. His time at college was also where he met his future wife, Ann Hoffmann, who joined him at Harvard Business School after they married. He earned his MBA “with distinction” in 1957 before serving as a lieutenant in the United States Army for three years.
Upon returning to Los Angeles, Hinchliffe began his professional career at McKinsey & Company. In a defining moment of his career, he left McKinsey in 1964 to co-found The Leisure Group, Inc., which eventually became BHH Management, Inc.. His partnership with Merle H. Banta lasted over five decades until his retirement at age 85.
Although active in the corporate world, Hinchliffe found immense pride in his nonprofit leadership. He chaired the boards of several significant organizations, including the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA, the Center Theatre Group, and the Board of Trustees of Occidental College. His leadership facilitated growth and transformation in these institutions, leaving an indelible impact on the community.
A Passion for Family and Life
Outside his professional endeavors, Hinchliffe cherished his time spent on Catalina Island and in Mammoth, where he engaged in various interests. He was an enthusiastic student of World War II history, practiced magic, and restored machinery, often collaborating with his brother Doug.
Family was at the heart of Hinchliffe’s life. He relished gatherings with loved ones, taking immense joy in spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter, Stevie Rae Link. His family remembers him for his sharp intellect, steady guidance, and sense of humor.
Hinchliffe is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Ann; daughter Lisa Hinchliffe Link (Dave); sons Stephen F. Hinchliffe III (Terry) and John Hinchliffe; four grandchildren; and his great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his brothers Bruce (Sandra) and Doug (Robin), along with many relatives and friends.
A private celebration of Stephen F. Hinchliffe Jr.’s life will be held on January 10, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Los Angeles Metropolitan YMCA or another charity that was close to his heart.
