Steven Nathan Obituary
Steven Ardell Nathan, born on December 10th, 1957, in Norfolk, Nebraska, peacefully departed from this world on Tuesday, May 28th, 2024, at 12:10 am, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Demorest, Georgia. Steve, also affectionately known as "papa", was the cherished son of Ardell Nathan and Joan Sauser Russ. Joan Dries Nathan was also introduced into his childhood as a beloved mother.
Steve's life was colored with passion and resilience. Steve graduated high school in Sioux City, IA. He moved from Sioux City, IA to Gastonia, North Carolina to spend more time with his birth mom. Steve grew out his hair and served as a roadie for the rock band Sunburst, embracing the adventurous spirit of the music industry. It was during one fateful night at a nightclub where Steve's journey with Sharon began. Their love story, sparked by a dance and a compliment, blossomed into a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support.
On June 2nd, 1979, he exchanged vows with his beloved Sharon Kay Duncan in Gastonia, North Carolina, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together. In 1984, they decided to move from North Carolina to Madison, Nebraska in order to help take care of Steve's Grandparents and raise their wonderful family. Six years ago, Steve and Sharon relocated to Georgia to be closer to Sharon's family, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to familial bonds.
Anywhere Steve lived with his adored wife, Sharon, was home, from the plains and farmland of Nebraska to the rolling hills of the Appalachians because anywhere he went, he was surrounded by friends.
Steve never met a stranger and never met anything he couldn't fix. His talents in maintenance and repair were fueled by his ingenuity and skill in every category from mechanics to carpentry to just about anything that needed his attention. His favorite job was at Stephens County Hospital. Steve's dedication and craftsmanship were evident in every task he undertook.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Steve found joy in various hobbies and pastimes. He was an avid fan of NASCAR racing, devoted supporter of Nebraska and Chiefs football, love of boating, being with horses, drinking a cold one, listening to Rock n' Roll, and playing foosball.
He made homes in North Carolina, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Georgia, but remained loyal to the NE Cornhuskers and was an avid football fan. You could often find Steve decked out in the colors of his favorite teams the KC Cheifs, Huskers, or KU Basketball's Jayhawks.
In addition to his devoted wife Sharon, Steve leaves behind a legacy of love and memories cherished by his children; Brooke (Chad) of Sioux Falls, SD; Brandon (Tiffany) of Gastonia, NC; Matthew of Demorest, GA; and Nicole of Demorest, GA.. Steve was a dedicated husband and father, always placing his family's well-being above all else.
Steve's compassionate heart extended beyond his immediate family. He was a beloved brother to: Rich (Karla) Nathan of Lawrence, KS; Sandy Nathan of Charlotte ,NC; Randy (Kevin) Nathan of Jacksonville, FL; Terri (Dale) Neibaur of Amelia Island, FL; Rick Nichols of Mesa, AZ; Mark (Allie) Russ of Boone, NC; AJ (Allisa) Nathan of Casper, WY; and Nancy Forys Stimac (Anthony) of St Jacob, IL.
Additionally, Steve's family include his grandchildren: Madison Theisen, Brandon Theisen, Jackson Theisen, Lanie Nathan, Bronx R. Nathan, and Calliope Williams. Lastly, Steve loved his numerous nieces and nephews.
Steve's indomitable spirit shone brightly even in the face of adversity. Despite being diagnosed with lung cancer three months ago, he faced his illness with courage and determination, inspiring all who knew him with his resilience.
Though Steve may no longer walk among us, his memory will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid farewell to a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, let us take solace in the cherished memories we shared and the enduring impact of his remarkable life.
Steve had a strong faith in Jesus Christ. Steve's spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him, guiding us with his love and inspiring us to live each day with passion and resilience. May he rest in eternal peace.
A celebration of Steve's life will be held on Saturday, June 1st at Brandon and Tiffany's home, where friends and family will gather to honor his memory and share stories of his extraordinary life. Cards of encouragement can be sent to Sharon Nathan, 661 Alfred Taylor Drive, Demorest, Georgia 30535
Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jun. 1, 2024.