Birth date: Jan 15, 1957 Death date: Dec 7, 2025
Stephen John Pearton passed away on December 7, 2025, at the age of 68. He was born on January 15, 1957, in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, to Dennis Gregory Pearton and Margaret Faye Godfrey. Steve graduated with a PhD in Physics fr Read Obituary
I am saddened and shocked by the passing of my dear former AT&T Bell Labs colleague Steve Pearton. I wish to express my deep condolences to his wonderful family. Steve had a unique perspective on research, technology, and company politics. Those who worked with Steve will never forget him.
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Steve’s sudden passing. Cammy, Max and the UF extended family are in my thoughts every day. I know so many of our lives are the better for Steve’s immense intellect, humor, talents and fatherly concern. Steve was an irreplaceable guiding hand in my life and an inspiring example of how to be a scientist, friend and mentor. Although bittersweet and ironic (I think Steve would have agreed) that it was only months ago that I saw Steve in person for the first time in more than 25 years, I feel so exceptionally lucky and thankful for that interaction. My deepest thanks go to Cammy, Rachel, Brent and all the others from Steve and Cammy’s extended UF family for bringing us all together for Cammy’s retirement celebration. It was invaluable to see everyone and, in particular, Steve. I can say without any exaggeration that Steve was sharp as ever but even more importantly the happiest I had ever seen him. Yet another life lesson from Steve. Thanks to you all for that.
Sincere Condolences to All, My Advisor Prof. Steve J. Pearton. Steve, The lovely professor, my M.S. and Ph.D. advisor & brother-like friend, Every word he told me, Very friendly & comfortable, Enjoy chatting & writing, Peacefully, Eternally, Adventurously, Realistically, Totally, Only and overally, Naturally to heaven on Dec. 7th, 2025. Best, Regards, From Jewon Lee, his graduate student from Aug. 1994 - Dec. 1997. We love you, Steve, forever. From Jewon, Mihyang, Jenny, Amy, Jason, James (Jenny's husband) and Julia (Jenny's daughter)
