Stephen R. Demarest, 84, of Lakewood, NJ, passed away on February 27, 2024, in Brick, NJ.

Born on December 12, 1939, he was known to many as Steve, a man-about-town who took enjoyment in his favorite things -- restaurants, bars, and traveling the world. His charismatic personality made him well-known at many establishments, where he entertained owners, staff, and customers with his always fascinating personal life stories.

Following military service in the Air Force, in 1962, he embarked on a successful career as a communications technician and supervisor with AT&T's Long Lines Division in New York City. After retiring from AT&T's Bell Labs Division, he worked as a Documentation Writer at CommTech, a telecom software company in Brick, NJ. His passion for technology and gadgets led him to help start DataNet, a web design company, where he also contributed to the operation of the community website, Toms River Online (Toms River, NJ).

In his leisure time, Steve enjoyed professional auto racing telecasts and, like his father before him, was a member of the Harrington Park (NJ) Volunteer Fire Department. He lived by his favorite phrase, "This is NOT a dress rehearsal," always seeking joy and adventure in life. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Percy and Catherine Demarest, and his younger brother Jeffery. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Steve was cremated, and a private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.