Stephen N. Jaffe, DDS
May 2, 1938 - August 1, 2025
Stephen Nelson Jaffe, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of the Marin County community, passed away surrounded by his family. He was 87 years old.
Born in Oakland, California, on May 2, 1938. A graduate of Lowell High School (1955), he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley (1960), followed by a Doctor of Dental Surgery from UCSF Dental School (1964).
Stephen married the love of his life, Helene Lasar, on January 28, 1964. Together, they built a life filled with joy, adventure, and unwavering devotion to their family. He was a proud father to David (Shaila) and Stacey Marshall (Scott), and a cherished grandfather to Reuben, Trevor, and Madeline. He is also survived by his brother Dennis (Paula) and his brother-in-law, Richard Lasar (Virginia) and many nieces and nephews.
Stephen served in the U.S. Army for two years, stationed in Giessen, Germany. Upon returning to the United States, he settled in Greenbrae in January 1967, where he opened his dental practice the following month on the corner of 5th & H in San Rafael. For 45 years, he cared for generations of patients with warmth and integrity and led the dental peer review committee for over two decades, earning the respect of his colleagues and community.
Outside of his professional life, Stephen was a man of many passions. He was an avid tennis player, an original member of the Marin Tennis Club, and could be found on the courts three days a week. He had a deep appreciation for classical music, the symphony, and the arts. His love for travel and adventure took him around the world, but his favorite place was always home - hosting family and friends, cooking gourmet meals, and spending time by the pool with his grandchildren.
The family thanks the wonderful staff at Greenwood Assisted Living Facility who lovingly cared for Stephen these past two and a half years.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 17th at 1:00pm in Newman Hall at Congregation Sherith Israel, 2266 California Street, San Francisco.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Center for BRCA Research at UCSF. Please note the gift is in memory of Stephen Jaffe.