Dear Colleagues,
It's with deep sadness that I share that we lost our colleague Steven Swain, environmental horticulture advisor for Marin and Sonoma counties, on Feb. 8. He was 58.
Steven was with his family celebrating his wife's birthday in San Francisco when he collapsed. His cause of death is pending an autopsy. David Lewis, Steven's supervisor, has been in touch with his family, who granted permission to inform our UC ANR community. Steven is survived by his wife Deirdre and son Rowan.
This sudden, tragic loss has shocked the community Steven served and cared for. He joined UC ANR in 2000 and his contributions have been enduring. As one Master Gardener volunteer said: this is “such an enormous loss to such a huge network of people. We can only grieve together.” One of Steven's arborist clientele said, “I am devastated to hear this.” And an officemate said: “The office was too quiet when Steven went on vacation, but now it is quiet forever.”
Steven was committed to learning and generous with anyone who wanted to learn with him. He also was caring and genuine in his personal connections. “He was always humble, focusing on solutions and ensuring everyone involved felt they contributed and understood the broader context,” explained another tree care professional with whom Steven collaborated.
See Steven in action in this short video on how to plant a tree produced by the UC Marin Master Gardeners.
He was deeply valued for his commitment and positive impact on plant and landscape health. “The world around us is better understood and cared for because of Steven,” one arborist said. Another observed: “Steven's impact in making the area greener and more vibrant is evident everywhere we go.”
Those wishing to send condolences to Steven's family are asked to mail cards to the UC Cooperative Extension Marin office, care of David Lewis, 1682 Novato Blvd., Ste. 150B, Novato, CA 94947. Planning is underway for a celebration of Steven's life, and we will share those details when available.
For those seeking support for your own well-being, I encourage you to contact the Academic and Staff Assistance Program (ASAP), which provides cost-free and confidential counseling and referral services to all UC ANR employees.
Glenda Humiston
Vice President