Steven Phillip "Steve" Binns

MARICOPA - Steven Phillip "Steve" Binns Sr., 64, died on March 23, 2016.

Mr. Binns was born on July 10, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio, to William and Bonnie (Williams) Binns and into a musical world of love, spirituality and a supportive family. His mother taught him to play the piano and his father taught him to play bass. In high school, his passion for music flourished and he joined a band, made an album and toured. Throughout his life, his keyboard talents touched souls from St. Phillip Lutheran Church to the Ohio State Fairgrounds with Bob Hope. If asked about his best moments, he’d humbly recall jam sessions with his younger brothers, Jeffrey and Terry Binns.

In 1968, while in high school, he met Karen Trevan and fell in love. He attended Kent State University with her in 1970. There he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. Later, at Central Michigan University, he achieved a Master of Arts degree in public administration. He loved to learn. Even after retirement in 2008, he created a website with pool information and purchased the latest of all things tech.

On June 16, 1973, he married his best friend, Karen. Together they prayed, traveled, wined, dined, laughed and shared secrets in their private world. With profound enjoyment, he raised his two sons. His quiet and patient demeanor provided a solid foundation for their healthy development. He served his community well with positions at the city and state health departments for over 40 years. As an administrator, he helped create and enforce safety laws for beaches, mobile home parks, tattoo shops, public parks and more. He had an attraction for helping people and keeping them safe.

Survivors include two sons, Steven Binns Jr. and Brian Binns; a brother, Jeffrey Binns Sr.; two granddaughters; and a great-granddaughter. His wife died in 2015.

Memorial services will be held at the home in Maricopa at 11 a.m. April 18 and at St. Philip Lutheran Church in Columbus at 2 p.m. April 23.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel was in charge of arrangements.