Dr. Stephen “Steve” Wilson lived 84 years at full throttle before peacefully heading to the great dugout in the sky on April 1, 2026. Born in Dayton Ohio on November 13, 1941; he was blessed with the arrival of four siblings David, Julie, and Dan with whom he retained a close-nit friendship throughout the years.
A graduate of Northwestern University, Dr. Wilson spent decades as a general dentist serving his rural community in Garberville, CA. His patients knew him as much for his clinical skills as his genuine compassion and sarcastic, witty sense of humor. Before settling into private practice, he served with distinction as a Navy officer attached to the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His bravery and selfless dedication earned him the Bronze Star Medal. A dedicated, passionate and very patriotic man, Dr. Wilson never hesitated to give thanks and recognition to anyone that displayed their representation of service to our great country, as it was an honor he held high and had an immense impact on the remainder of his life.
While he was a legendary fan of the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors, he was, above all, a family sports fan. His favorite arena wasn’t a professional stadium, but the backyard baseball field where he spent countless hours playing ball with his five children. He taught them that the game was always more about the people you played with than the final score. One of his most notable quotes was, “Praise Jah”, and he certainly exemplified that passion for life and sincere gratitude in all his affairs.
Beyond the field, he was a man of courage, hard work, and enjoying life with a passion. A devoted father; it was about the laughter, the stories, and the connection shared around the dinner table. Whether through his professional skills or his personal generosity, he lived by the principle that true success is measured by what you give back to your community and serving your country.
He leaves behind a starting lineup of five children: Galen, Patricia, William and Johnny Wilson, Mrs. Emily and son in-law Andy White. He is also survived by their wonderful mother Jean Henne and his widow Julie Wilson. His three grandchildren were lucky to have known him and surely inherited some of his witty intelligence, Ramon and Emilia Carrillo and Ava White. He taught them how to keep a positive attitude, how to handle life’s curveballs, and how to live a life of integrity, service, and compassion.
His widow Julie Wilson was a perfect addition to the family after they wed in 2015 and her commitment and companionship can not be surpassed. Their dog Jack, “the best doggie” was a devoted companion whom Steve absolutely adored and will be at the celebration of life to commemorate with his us.
A celebration of a life well-lived—with military honors—will be held on Saturday, May 16th at the Veteran’s Hall: 1426 Main Street in Fortuna, CA. In honor of his spirit, feel free to wear your favorite team’s colors.
Doors open at 12:30-please be seated by 1:00.
Praise Jah! We look forward to seeing you there.