John Stevenson Foster, Jr., better known as Steve, embarked on his final sailing adventure on July 1, 2023 after battling several health issues for the past six months.
Born in Glen Ridge on June 11, 1936, Steve was a dedicated father, grandfather, and friend. He was passionate about sailing on Barnegat Bay and much of his 87-year journey was spent either racing (solo on a Sunfish or as a crew member on a Sanderling) on the bay or overseeing those races as an officer/committee member of the Barnegat Bay Yacht Racing Association.
Steve was a graduate of Glen Ridge High School where he was on the varsity golf, football and basketball teams, and Wesleyan University. He spent most of his work life at the Home Insurance Company in New York City before concluding his career at Cover-All Systems Inc in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. He and his wife Betsy lived in Verona for 55 years before officially moving full time into their shore home in Mantoloking, New Jersey.
He was a man who wore many hats: As a young man he exhibited his two dogs and as a homeowner he created lush gardens and was especially known for his tomatoes and cucumbers. Additionally, he was a steadfast supporter of Bucknell Basketball (his wife’s alma mater). A member of the Lavallette Yacht Club and the Normandy Beach Yacht Club (since 1979), he served as fleet captain at the latter for many years.
His dedication extended not only to his personal interests but also to his faith as a long-time member of Church of the Holy Spirit in Verona, where he served on the vestry, and St. Simons by the Sea in Mantoloking.
Steve leaves behind his devoted daughter, Beth, son-in-law Steve, cherished grandson James Shorten and his sister Joanne Foster. He was preceded in his journey by his father John Foster, Sr., his mother Anna Foster, his brother James, his son John III, and his wife Elizabeth (Betsy) Foster. His spirit will continue to live on through the countless memories he created with his loved ones.
A service will be held on Saturday, July 8 at 10:30 a.m at Mount Hebron Cemetery in Upper Montclair. A memorial is being planned for later in the month in Mantoloking.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Simon by-the Sea or the Barnegat Bay Yacht Racing Association would be appreciated.
You are invited to share your memories and upload photos to his memorial page at www.proutfuneralhome.com.
