Stephen Austin Hoverman

1943 - 2026

Stephen Austin Hoverman, 82, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, in Fair Oaks, California, surrounded by his son, caregiver, friends, and loved ones.

Born on August 19, 1943, in Lima, Ohio, Steve was the eldest son of Austin and Eloise Hoverman. His early life unfolded across a tapestry of Air Force bases around the globe. Alongside his siblings Bruce, Jane, and Bryce, he grew up immersed in diverse cultures and landscapes that would later inspire his lifelong passion for exploration and service.

In June 1961, Steve graduated as valedictorian from Wurtsmith Memorial High School at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. He earned a Bachelor in Business Administration from Ohio University and completed a Doctor of Optometry degree from The Ohio State University in 1974. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal before receiving an honorable discharge in 1977.

In 1975, Steve opened his first private optometry clinic in Stow, Ohio, and in 1989, relocated to Fair Oaks, California, where he continued serving as an optometrist for many families and communities throughout Sacramento and the Bay Area until his retirement in 2021.

Inspired by both duty and wanderlust born from his global upbringing, Steve ventured across six continents providing humanitarian aid and supporting community development initiatives. He summited mountains on three continents and found serenity sailing the waters of San Francisco Bay.

Deeply rooted in community life, Stephen gave generously of himself at home. He was an active member of the Fair Oaks Rotary Club and the Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento. He volunteered regularly at the Orangevale Food Bank and contributed time to The Book Den operated by Friends of the Sacramento Public Library. A lifelong admirer of Star Trek's ideals-of unity among worlds unknown-he carried those visions into how he lived: boldly curious yet deeply compassionate.

Stephen is remembered with love by his son; by his brother; by many loving family members; and by countless others whose lives were touched by his generosity and grace.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held at a later date.