Steven Francis Babione, Sr. age 76, of Marysville, died peacefully, Friday, May 3, 2024 at his home with his family by side.
A veteran of the United States Army and the United States Navy, he served from 1967 to 1973 as a data communications specialist and crypto machine operator. He was stationed at Okinawa, Germany and Alaska and upon honorable discharge, received a National Defense Service and Good Conduct medals.
He had worked many jobs over the years, most recently as a fuel attendant at the Kroger fuel center. He could be easily recognized by his friendly demeanor and affinity for socializing. He had never known a stranger and would enjoy all the little interactions he had with people.
Originally from Fremont, Ohio Steve had moved to Marysville in 1997 with his family and would make this town his home. He was passionate about staying up to date with local events and news. His favorite place in town was the library as he was an avid reader, easily finishing over a book a week. He would always help someone in need and would often lend a hand whenever he could. He was invaluable with a wrench when a car broke down and would pick up a hammer anytime.
Apart from town, Steve loved feeding birds, bowling, and collecting wind chimes and gnomes. He was an active Pokémon Go player and would play around town with his wife. Many figurines of Squirtle, his favorite Pokémon, can be found around the house.
Steve was a big Ohio State Buckeyes fan and had spent many Saturdays watching the Buckeyes play. He was well known for his enthusiasm and could be heard cheering every big play throughout the house.
Most of all, Steve loved his family. He loved traveling with everyone and spending the holidays together, especially Christmas. It was no secret which house was his during Christmas time as he always exhibited a fervent zeal towards his decorations. Setting up as many lights as his wife would allow and decorations from signs to inflatables.
He was preceded in death by his father Seraphin Babione; his mother, Rose Green McClintock; a sister, Teresa Babione; a brother, Michael Babione; and a niece, Tamara Babione.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Wendy J. Bunce Babione; his children, Tyler (Sarah) Bunce, Chelsea Babione, Eleni (Bryan) Endsley and Steven Babione, Jr.; his grandchildren, Gabriella, Lydia, Leah and Aemon; his sisters, Marilyn Bowers, Pam Babione and Barb Mullen; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held Sunday, May 19, 2024 at the family home, 14214 Pleasant Ridge Drive, Marysville beginning at noon.
Underwood Funeral Home is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.underwoodfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers or other material condolences, Steve would have appreciated a donation to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, at https://donate.imaginationlibrary.com/ as helping others to learn to enjoy reading helps further the spirit of who he was.