Carmel Valley, CA

Steven Sherwood, 77, passed away on February 14, 2025, in Carmel Valley, California. He was born in New York City on July 29, 1947, before moving to California at the age of 2. Steven lived a life filled with curiosity, exploration, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

After earning his undergraduate degree from UC Davis, Steven worked in various jobs, including involvement in a bighorn sheep study in the eastern Sierra, as a lab technician, and collecting donated kidneys for transplantation.

Returning to his education, Steven earned a PhD from UC Berkeley, and completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Michigan and Stanford University where he worked on gene amplification for about 15 years. He later worked in biotechnology with companies in the Bay Area, ending his career doing contract research at Aragen Biosciences.

Steven had a brilliant mind, and his contributions to science have left an enduring impact. He had in-depth knowledge of the body’s cells, harnessing their potential to fight against disease in combination with drugs. His unwavering dedication to discovery and pursuit of knowledge have inspired many. He was a mentor, a collaborator, kind and was generous in sharing his knowledge.

Even though he applied formal science in his work, he was truly a naturalist at heart. Steven was happiest when heading out on his own into the wilderness with not much more than a sleeping bag and his dog. In retirement he enjoyed birdwatching, and volunteering as a docent at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, sharing his knowledge and appreciation of the environment with others. Every morning and evening he could be found in Garland Park faithfully walking his three beloved Icelandic sheepdogs: Loki, Freyja and Kappi.

In retirement Steven had a creative side as well. He enjoyed jewelry making and woodworking — though his habit of sanding on the couch may not have been appreciated by everyone. Photography became a more recent passion of his, allowing him to capture the beauty he so deeply admired.

He shared his life with his wife, Margaret Johnson; and was a father to Michael, Chelsea, Marcos and Sarah. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren: Lily, Naomi and Caleb. He and his younger brother, Morris, shared a close relationship.

Steven’s love for nature and insatiable curiosity will be missed. May his memory bring a smile to those who loved him.

A Celebration of Steven’s Life will be held in the Carmel Valley Community Park Gazebo, Carmel Valley Road at Ford Road, on Saturday April 5, 2025, at 3:30 p.m.

Donations can be made in Steven’s name to the Mono Lake Committee, P.O. Box 29, Lee Vining, CA 93541 info@monolake.org