J. Stephen Hicks, a well known photographer and 19-year Malibu resident, died this week. He was 58.

A celebration of life will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23 at the Sunset Restaurant, 6800 Westward Beach Road in Malibu.

The family and close friends released the following obituary:

Stephen was a force of life -- adventurous, inquisitive, passionate, inexhaustible, kind, loving, empathetic, and most importantly, a true and lifelong companion to all those lucky enough to cross his path. His wit, insight, compassion, and boundless love will never be forgotten.

Stephen was an acclaimed photographer, an avid traveler, surfer and mountain biker, who called his beloved Malibu home for 19 years. He was a loving husband and a committed father, whose happiest, most contented moments were spent with his family, wife Lani, son Ryder, 18, and daughter Kailee, 15, who survive him. But Stephen came most alive bobbing in the early morning surf in Malibu and Mexico, mountain biking in the coastal trails above his home, photographing nature in all its glory, power and mystery.

Stephen was a model friend. He listened, advised, aided and was always there when anyone needed him. His character was strong, unwavering, unimpeachable. He never judged but he always loved.

Stephen had a restless soul and an ever-growing curiosity about the world. From Bhutan to Africa, South America to Asia, Europe to Mexico, he sought new cultures, new experiences, new canvases for his unequaled nature photography. His passing has left an immeasurable void in those who loved him. But all our lives are richer and more complete for having been touched by his life and love.

The son of the late Joseph Wendall Hicks and Fletta June Stroud, Stephen was born in Denver, Colo. He was a 1972 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School and attended the University of Colorado. In the late 1970s, he found his way to Santa Barbara, where he attended and was graduated from the Brooks Institute, with a degree in photography.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to either the Surfrider Foundation or Heal the Bay or The John Wayne Cancer Foundation.