It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Stacey Warnecke (Hatfield) — a cherished wife, soulmate, and best friend — who tragically passed away on September 29, 2025, shortly after giving birth to her firstborn son, Axel.
Stacey gave birth at home, surrounded by love and anticipation, before an unforeseen and extremely rare complication arose. She was transferred to hospital, where despite the extraordinary efforts of medical staff, she passed away. Her husband expressed deep gratitude to the hospital team for their compassion and tireless care in her final moments.
Her husband, who shared nine beautiful years with Stacey, described her as “the light of my life and the reason I got up in the morning.” He added, “Words can’t do justice to how devastating this is for myself and everyone who knew and loved her. She was my lighthouse in the storm, and the world is less bright without her in it.”
The couple were married on a white-sand beach in the Maldives — a day he recalls as the happiest of his life. “As her husband, I couldn’t ask for a better partner. She was beautiful, loving, caring, hardworking, disciplined, intelligent, and trustworthy. She made me the man I am today, and everything I have in life is thanks to her.”
Stacey was a woman deeply connected to the natural world — a “child of the universe” who cherished life’s simple pleasures. She found peace surrounded by trees, with sand beneath her feet and a book in her hands. She valued presence over possessions, serenity over status. Those who knew her best will remember her gentle soul, her radiant smile, and her quiet wisdom.
Her loyal French Bulldog, Winter, was often by her side — a symbol of the simple, loving life she built and so deeply appreciated.
Stacey leaves behind her husband, her newborn son Axel, family, and friends who adored her beyond measure. Though her time on this earth was far too short, her light continues to shine brightly through the love she gave and the lives she touched.