Executive Steven LaVoie Wounded In Loop Office Shooting Dies of Injuries

Steven LaVoie, the Chicago executive who was shot in his Loop office this past summer, has died of his injuries.

LaVoie, 54, was allegedly shot in the head and stomach by a co-worker, Anthony DeFranco, 60, on July 31, before DeFranco took his own life. DeFranco was reportedly upset about being demoted. The wounded executive has been hospitalized since the shooting and at one point, his prognosis and recovery seemed hopeful.

His wife, Jodie, released a statement on CaringBridge, saying that her husband passed away peacefully on Monday. The LaVoie family lives in LaGrange.

“I am writing to let you know that Steve’s body has succumbed to his numerous injuries. I had truly hoped to tell a different story now about his recovery, and for so long I believed he would be with us again. But know that the man you all remember so dearly, fought so bravely. Steve brought great dignity and beauty to all of our lives these past months.”

LaVoie founded ArrowStream in 2000, a unique company which specialized in technology services for the supply chain industry. He was the company’s CEO until his injuries, when his wife stepped in as an advisor.

Frank Morgiewicz, CEO at ArrowStream, recalled in a statement on the company’s website that LaVoie loved to “question the status quo.”

“He inspired us to challenge ingrained mindsets and encourage new ways of thinking. His creativity and influence in the supply chain industry is felt in many circles, and is witnessed in the tremendous outpouring of goodwill as he fought to recover from his injuries …,” Morgiewicz said. “The hearts and thoughts of the ArrowStream team are with Steven’s family during this difficult time. ArrowStream will miss its Founder, leader, mentor, and friend …”

Jodie LaVoie described her husband as a man who cared about everyone and was passionate about all aspects of life.

“So many of you have related a funny Steve moment, or recounted good times from recent years or decades ago,” his wife said on CaringBridge. “I am honored that I had the gift of spending the past 20 years of my life with such a wonderful man.”

Jodie LaVoie continued: “The other night as I was putting the girls to bed, I saw a plaque that they have in their room with a quote from one of our favorite philosophers, Dr. Seuss. ‘Don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened.’ May we all remember our special Steve moments.”

Arrangements celebrating the executive’s life are set for Friday evening, Oct. 17, at the LaGrange Country Club, for family and friends. A funeral is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at First Presbyterian Church at 150 S Ashland Ave., in LaGrange. More details will become available on CaringBridge.