John Steven Nolen

(John) Steven Nolen, born December 2, 1952 in Fort Worth, TX entered eternal rest on July 26, 2022 in San Antonio, TX. Steve is preceded in death by his parents (John) Willard and Patsy Lou (Ferguson) Nolen. The Nolen family had a tradition of naming first born sons John but using their middle names. Steve is survived by his children: Gabriel Trystan Blackburn (Stephanie) and their sons Caden and Connor; John Caleb Nolen; Stephanie Diana Nolen (Christopher Rendon) and step-son Noah Rendon; and their mother Debra Nolen. Also survived by his sisters: Pamela Voss (Mike), Melinda Heath (Mike), Cindy Nolen and Cecelia Abbott; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Steve graduated from Thomas Jefferson high school in 1971 and went on to join the US navy. Upon return, he began his extensive career in the commercial plumbing industry with Chris Bendele and Wayne Klein. Steve used his expertise to help with various new constructions including prisons across south Texas, Santa Rosa Hospital, Northeast Baptist Hospital, the Marriott in downtown San Antonio and the Texas State Capitol remodel. In his more than 50 years as a plumber with his med-gas certification, he was a mentor for many new apprentices. He had a gift for reading plans, navigating job sites and teaching young plumbers the ropes, to include his sons- Gabe for many years and Caleb for a short while. On top of the knowledge he brought to work, he also brought a sense of humor accompanied by lots of jokes and a knack for telling the best stories. He was the job site prankster especially in the Victoria Air days when he drove his crews to out of town job sites in the “Lead Sled” suburban which had many stories of its own.

Steve married Barbara White in 1982, divorcing in 1983 with whom he had no children. He married Debra Trisler Blackburn on December 26, 1987 and with her, raised 3 children and loved them with all of his heart. Their childhood was filled with many fond memories to include camping trips, coast trips, little league games, driving lessons, swimming and legendary backyard BBQ’s.

He was a friend to all and will be greatly missed. He now rests in paradise with his beloved Nana and other family. Go rest high on that mountain.