Atticus Elias "Atti" Steitz passed away on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. He was one year old.

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Atti filled every moment with strength, determination, and a personality much bigger than himself.

Though his time on earth was far too short, Atti filled every moment with strength, determination, and a personality much bigger than himself. Born with congenital heart disease, he became a true heart warrior who faced every challenge with remarkable courage. He was strong, tough, and resilient, inspiring everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Atti had a lot of character for such a little man. Whether he was proudly rocking his signature mohawk, charming everyone around him, or sharing his endless chatter, he brought smiles to everyone who knew him. A natural ladies' man from the very beginning, Atti never met a stranger and quickly won over the hearts of everyone he encountered.

Because of his friendly nature and popularity among caregivers, nurses, and staff, Atti became affectionately known as the "Mayor" of the hospital floor. His bright spirit and infectious personality left a lasting impression on all who cared for him throughout his journey.

Atti enjoyed watching Moana and Kung Fu Panda, and he loved Paw Patrol and The Smurfs. These simple joys brought him happiness and created cherished memories for his family.

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He became a true heart warrior who faced every challenge with remarkable courage.

He is lovingly remembered by his parents, Athena Guerra and Isaiah Steitz of Jacksonville; paternal grandmother, Alyssa Crane (Daniel Cushman) of DeLand; grandfather, Thomas Steitz of DeLeon Springs; uncles, Colt Steitz and Luke Cushman of DeLand; aunt, Bella Steitz of DeLand; paternal great-grandfather, Thomas Steitz, Sr. of DeLeon Springs; paternal great-grandfather, Michael Crane of DeLand; maternal grandmother, Joanie Freeman (Brian) of Las Vegas, Nevada; maternal grandfather, Jon Guerra of Charlotte, North Carolina; uncle, Jon Guerra, Jr. of Charlotte; maternal great-grandparents, Joan and Scott Owen of Daytona Beach; godmother, Maddy Bolette of Charlotte; godfather, Thayedenn Cox of DeLand; great-aunt, Amy Miller of Salisbury, North Carolina; as well as several other great-uncles, great-aunts, extended family members, and many family friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m., with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. A committal service will immediately follow at DeLand Memorial Gardens.

The family kindly requests that all guests attending the services dress formally and wear light blue, if possible, in honor of Atti.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made through a GoFundMe account established to assist the family. Details will be announced soon.

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Atti never met a stranger and quickly won over the hearts of everyone he encountered.

Although Atti's life was brief, the love he shared and the joy he brought to those around him will live on forever. His strength, courage, and sweet spirit will remain in the hearts of his family and friends always.