Dr. Steven Joel Gitomer, 82, Esteemed Plasma Physicist and Editor

Dr. Steven Joel Gitomer, a distinguished plasma physicist and devoted family man, passed away on April 25 at the age of 82. Steve’s career was marked by decades of service at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Department of Energy, where his expertise in plasma physics advanced both science and national interests. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering Science from Johns Hopkins University in 1964, a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University in 1966, and Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering in 1969 from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Over the course of his life, Steve contributed to many communities as a scientist, leader, traveler, cyclist, genealogist, and volunteer, but his most meaningful role was as a husband, father, and grandfather. Family was always at the center of everything he did.

Steve made several notable contributions to the field of plasma physics, including work on laserplasma interactions, plasmas in medicine, laser fusion diagnostics, and modelling and simulation of direct energy conversion, RF electron accelerators, plasma instabilities, and ablation for laser-induced fusion applications. Based on his accomplishments, he was elevated to the rank of IEEE Fellow in 1992.

As the longtime Editor-in-Chief of the IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science journal from 1984-2024, Steve expanded its scope to include emerging topics and streamlined its operations. Steve also worked for the Department of Energy and State Department in the 1990s and 2000s on arms-control, nonproliferation, and scientific collaboration in the former Soviet Union and served as the Program Director for Plasma Physics at the National Science Foundation from 2009-2015. During his long and successful career, Steve impacted and mentored many and was a pillar of the plasma physics community.

An avid traveler, Steve visited all seven continents and all five oceans, embracing a great sense of adventure throughout his life. His travels often took him to remote and politically sensitive locations as part of his non-proliferation work. Despite the serious nature of these missions, Steve found inspiration and connection by seeking out Jewish communities around the world, sharing Shabbat with them even in distant places like Azerbaijan, Moldova, and Russia. These journeys reflected not only his professional dedication but also his deep appreciation for cultural and spiritual encounters during his global explorations.

Steve proudly served the Jewish community of Santa Fe as president of Temple Beth Shalom in 1988 and 1989. More recently he was actively involved with the Santa Fe Jewish Center Chabad. He loved Jewish genealogy, spent many hours researching family history, and shared his knowledge at meetings of the New Mexico Jewish Historical Society.

Steve was an accomplished athlete, but was most passionate about bicycling, and was actively involved in Santa Fe Seniors on Bikes (SOBs) cycling club, serving as Treasurer and membership coordinator. He cherished his time outdoors, and his love for adventure and bicycling inspired those around him.

Steve’s greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he built a home rooted in love, laughter, and togetherness. As a father, Steve led not only with wisdom but with a warm heart, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support, which shaped his daughters Michele and Alana into the remarkable individuals they are today. He was the kind of dad who showed up for every moment, big or small, whether it meant lending a listening ear, sharing a bike ride, or celebrating life’s milestones with heartfelt joy.

As a grandfather, Steve embraced being part of his grandchildren’s lives. He was endlessly curious about their interests, always ready with a story, a thoughtful question, or a cozy hug. He took immense pride in his grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments and guiding them with the same dedication he brought to every aspect of his life. He loved watching them grow, learn, and blossom.

Steve is survived by Joyce Gitomer, his beloved wife of 59 years and the heart of his world; his daughters Michele (Scott) and Alana (Ted), his grandchildren, Harley, Jacob, Portia, and Matthew, who were his constant sources of pride and purpose; his sister Diane (Frank) and brother Ellis (Francie), with whom he shared many cherished memories.

A modern Renaissance man, Steve moved through the world with intellect, curiosity, and creativity, embracing science, culture, community, and adventure with equal passion. His legacy endures in his family, his colleagues, and the many lives he touched through science, mentorship, friendship, and his adventurous spirit. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the American Lung Association in honor of Steven Gitomer. May his memory be for a blessing and inspire generations to come.