Steven Demott Attix

Steven DeMott Attix

"I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world, and am free." - Wendell Berry

Steven “Steve” DeMott Attix, beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend passed away unexpectedly early Easter morning on March 31, 2024. Though Steve will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched and the wonderful family he leaves behind, we also rejoice in celebrating a life well-lived. There is no question Steve’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those he cherished most, within the stories they share and in the memories that can never be forgotten.

Steven DeMott Attix was born on July 24, 1962. As a young boy growing up in the Midwest under big skies and open prairies, Steve quickly developed a deep connection with nature, spending much of his time outdoors. Coupling his innate desire to learn and brilliant, yet curious mind, young Steve found himself immersed in every book he could get his hands on or trinket he could take apart. He enjoyed understanding how things worked and even took a strong interest in farming. Yet, some of Steve’s most treasured childhood memories involved family trips to various U.S. State and National Parks, sparking his passion to travel the world. Once he graduated high school, Steve jumped at the opportunity to explore the United States and Central America. His love of travel never faded throughout his lifetime.

As a young adult, Steve began to explore and perfect his skill set. He lived and worked on the East Coast, in SoCal and even Alaska. Being inquisitive, creative, and desiring to work with his hands, he sought out a career path in the building industry, earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts at Eisenhower College. And because Steve realized his hands could be used to help others, he also obtained his paramedic certification from Alamance College while studying to become a Physician’s Assistant. This is just a small example of Steve’s big heart and love for others. There truly was nothing he could not do. Over the last forty years, Steve worked his way from stone mason to lead carpenter, artist and sculptor to builder and ultimately, master craftsman. His unmatched skill set in construction, business and design led him to a career in Project Management. As a result, Steve had recently joined the Lewis Builders team in Carmel, California- a company which aligned with his goals, visions and values. There, he quickly found a home where his radiant personality was welcomed and appreciated, making him a beloved figure amongst his colleagues.

However, it was clear that Steve’s greatest accomplishments in life were his wonderful children, Andrew, Rachel, Abigail and Haley, as well as his loving wife of twenty-two years, Allison. His family was his pride and joy, his heart and soul... aside from his two Goldendoodles, Aurora and Dakota, of course. Steve looked forward to weekly phone calls with his children and beamed with pride over their successes. When it came to his wife, Allison, Steve described their first meeting as love at first sight. They often expressed that they were soulmates, sharing a unique connection, sense of humor and deep friendship that could light up a room. They kept their love and commitment at the center of their marriage, with laughter, teamwork and compassion carrying them through the toughest of seasons. Together, they had a love that will continue to radiate for generations to come.

In his later years, Steve could be found surrounded by nature. He was happiest when planting in the garden, hiking and camping in the woods, walking the sandy beaches with his wife and dogs alongside him, taking care of his beloved bees, meditating amongst the trees, photographing beautiful landscapes, or delighting in the occasional day out on the sea sailing, daydreaming of one day sailing around the world. Steve also enjoyed ballroom dancing classes with Allison, time spent in his North Carolina workshop creating custom pieces, cooking delicious meals, reading, writing and working on his memoirs. And if that wasn’t enough, Steve even desired to one day try his hand at stand-up comedy, sharing his jokes and witty one-liners with anyone who would listen. If you had the pleasure of knowing him, you knew Steve had a great, big heart, a can-do spirit, was unapologetically himself and desired to leave the world a better place. He was steadfast and reliable, yet adventurous and free-spirited. Above all, Steve lived his life with integrity, love and without regret, most notably stating, "Don't wait to live your life, no regrets... and try to be happy - We're not guaranteed happiness, so when you have it, enjoy it." - Steve Attix.

The family would like to express their gratitude to family, friends, neighbors and colleagues who have reached out to give their condolences, offered their time or a helping hand from the kindness of their hearts, and for coming together to uplift the Attix family during this difficult time. A special thank you to the entire team at Lewis Builders for their unwavering care and support, as well as Steve’s devoted medical care team. The outpouring of love and connection from the community has truly touched their hearts and is a true testament to the impact Steve made in this world.

Steven DeMott Attix is survived by his Wife, Allison; children, Andrew, Rachel, Abigail and Haley; brother, Kevin; sister, Debbie and mother, Pat; father and mother-in law, Rick and Denise Martin; grandchildren, Grayson and Eliana; and Goldendoodle, Aurora.

Memorial services to be held in the Monterey Bay Area will be announced.