Stephen “Steve” Bruce Sanborn was born on May 7, 1946 to Reverend Arthayer and Ruth E. Cummings Sanborn in Woonsocket, Rhode Island and was one of 5 children. After high school at the age of 17 and with the approval of his father, Steve enlisted in the United States Army. Steve served in Vietnam as a combat medic and received several medals from his time in service. War changes a person and this was no different for Steve. He struggled throughout the rest of his lifetime with the aftereffects of his time in Vietnam.
Upon his discharge with the Army Steve had a number of occupations eventually settling on nursing which he continued until his retirement. Steve specialized in Psychology and throughout his nursing career he was able to mentor several young nurses. It was during an early nursing position in Florida where he met and married Patricia Anne Turner. They married on June 2nd, 1982 and Steve later adopted Anne’s infant daughter Megan. Several years later in 1985 they welcomed a son Daniel.
Steve always had a bit of wanderlust in his system. Moving his family all over the country for different nursing positions. He was a bit of a loner at times and struggled to find peace and contentment in his life. He was a man who like most of us was a little bit broken. A man who loved God, his grandchildren and was proud of his children's accomplishments. He enjoyed spending lazy days on the beach just a few short hours from home.
Steve had struggled with some health problems throughout his adult lifetime. The last several years of Steve's life had become riddled with increasing problems and hospital stays. In the several months prior to his death Steve had made known his acceptance and readiness for the Lord to call him home. So, when in the early morning hours of December 14, 2024 at the age of 78 when Steve passed away peacefully in his sleep it was shocking but not a complete surprise.
Steve was preceded in death by many family members and some friends. He leaves behind his wife Anne, daughter Megan along with her husband Rex. His son Daniel his wife Jessi and their 3 children. Bonus daughter Heather and her son Bradley whom he loved as a grandson. Steve will be missed and loved, but we are glad he is at peace without pain or worry.
Steve did not want any elaborate service or funeral. There will be a private family celebration to spread his ashes. In lieu of sending flowers please make a donation to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
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