Hayden Charles Steinhilper, 23, of Higganum, died Monday October 16, 2023 in Norfolk, VA.  He was born in Higganum, beloved son of Robert A. Steinhilper of Old Saybrook and Melissa Monington Masi of Higganum. Hayden was currently serving with the US Navy as a member of SEAL Team 10 as Operations Specialist Second Class.

Haydenis survived by his mother; Melissa and her husband Paul Masi; father, Robert Steinhilper and Elizabeth Carbone; siblings, Taylor (Michael) Weiffenbach, Benjamin, and Carter (Jill) Steinhilper; step siblings, Jackson Crowell-Masi, Emily (Antonio) Massaro, Ashley and Hannah Carbone. Additionally, he is survived by his paternal grandparents Helen and Charles Steinhilper, uncles, cousins, and family by choice. He is pre-deceased by his maternal grandparents Linda and Rowan Monington, Uncle Todd, and Cousin Amanda Monington.

Hayden grew up in Higganum and in his brief time here on earth, he achieved more than many have in a lifetime. Throughout his youth he became a treasured member of his community playing youth football, lacrosse and building life-long relationships. Hayden greatly enjoyed spending time with his family, particularly yearly camping trips, vacations to Disney, and day trips to the beach. He had a zest for life and adventure that was palpable. If there was mischief to be had, he was eager to be involved. With his siblings he spent a great deal of time outdoors often returning with injuries, dirt, and a smile on his face.

After high school, Hayden joined the US NAVY and was excited for this new chapter in his life. Following his initial training, he was assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln where he would spend the next five years working as an Operations Specialist. While on the ship, Hayden participated in two long deployments, rapidly increased his rank, traveled to many countries, and built meaningful and valuable friendships. In active service, he sacrificed holidays, events, and time with those who love him at home. While he was missed, one could only remain in gratitude as he was living the journey of his choice. Throughout these years his passion for adventure only grew in sky diving, scuba diving, and spear fishing. Hayden continued to remain connected to his family and friends, mostly through a quick social media picture, and we all loved sharing this with him. He truly lived his life to the fullest.

Following his service on the carrier, Hayden was accepted to be a member of SEAL TEAM 10 continuing in his role of Operation Specialist. This was a distinguished honor for which he was most proud and humbled by. In accepting this honor, he relocated from San Diego CA, to Norfolk VA. While Hayden's time with this team was brief, the impact that he made, accomplishments he achieved, and friendships he built were unparalleled. He engaged in any and all tasks that needed to be done, bringing with him his ambition and sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by this fine team.

While the sudden loss of Hayden has rocked many from their core, he would want those who love him to live a long, beautiful, and adventurous life. He would want us to be fearless and brave, and while it may be challenging, we will carry him in our hearts always.

Funeral services will be held on Monday (October 30th) at 11 a.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown. Burial with military honors will follow at the State Veterans' Cemetery.  Calling hours will be on Sunday (October 29th) from 3 to 6 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, Hayden's family requests donations be sent in honor of his memory to the Navy SEAL Foundation, www.NavySEALFoundation.org. Navy Seal Foundation, 1619 D Street, Building 5326, Virginia Beach, VA 23459.To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.