John Blaine Stebbens, Sr., 76, Marion, went to be with the Lord in his home at 6:46 p.m. on Sunday, August 27, 2017. He was born in Marion on August 27, 1941, to Charles and Geneva (Croussore) Stebbens. He married the love of his life, Patty Shanks, on July 30, 1961, and she survives.
John was a 1959 graduate of Marion High School, and he attended Marion College. In his younger years, John worked at Custer’s Last Stand and was personally taught how to fry hamburgers by Bob Custer and Dave Howard. He never forgot that experience in life. John went on to work as a mould maker and machinist at Foster-Forbes Glass Company before going to Heye America, where he retired as a machinist. He was a Benefactor Member of the National Rifle Association, as well as a member of both Mississinewa Audobon Society and Marion First Friends Church.
He loved all kinds of music and played the piano. John was also an avid reader and enjoyed woodworking.
John was a wonderful husband and father who will be missed by his bride of 57 years, Patty; children, Sheila S. (Jeff) Todd, Marion, and John Blaine “J.B.” (Juliet) Stebbens, Jr., Florence, Kentucky; grandson, Noah Blackford Todd; and his German Shepherd dog, Simon. John deeply treasured the close relationships he had with his friends and co-workers.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Charles and Geneva Stebbens; his brother, Alvin Lowell Stebbens, who was a Korean War MIA; and his sister, Betty Aileen Helvie.
Family and friends may call from 4-8 p.m. on Friday, September 1, 2017, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 2, 2017, at the funeral home with Pastor Bob Garra officiating. Burial will follow at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Friends of the Gardens of Matter Park, 118 E. 4th St., Marion, IN 46952 and Cancer Services of Grant County, Tower Suites, 305 S. Norton Ave., Marion, IN 46952.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.