Stephen DeWitt, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and educator, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 8th surrounded by friends and family. Born on January 21, 1948, in South Charleston, West Virginia, Stephen lived a life full of curiosity and humor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Una DeWitt and brother, Robert DeWitt. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry; his sister, Ginny, his children, Jared (Lindsay) and Sarah (Martin); and four grandchildren: Michael, Hannah, Kate and Emily.

Stephen had a lifelong passion for learning and earned degrees in Math and Physics from the University of Utah. He completed post graduate education at MIT, of which he was especially proud. He went on to dedicate his career to teaching, with a special commitment to helping behaviorally challenged youth, believing in the potential of every student. Between his teaching periods he worked as a salesperson for large companies with a talent for turning a critical situation into a work of art.

Stephen found wonder in the night sky. He spent many quiet evenings with his telescope, photographing celestial events with the care and awe of a true stargazer. Whether capturing the rings of Saturn or the face of the full Moon, Stephen found joy in teaching those around him about the larger Universe.

His interests were wide-ranging -- he had a profound appreciation for art history, a love for anthropology, and an enthusiasm for barbecuing. In his youth, he was an avid baseball player and a marathon runner whose strong heart carried him through his brave battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.

Stephen's sense of humor was often quick, dry, and off-the-cuff. He found unexpected delight in setting up gazebos in record time and had an affection for the word "hut" while paddling his canoe. He had a deep love for animals, supporting causes such as the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a reflection of Stephen's compassionate spirit and love for wildlife.

Stephen's legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the laughter he shared. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.