John "Steve" Stephen Taylor

John “Steve” Stephen Taylor passed away peacefully August 1st, 2025 at Mercy Hospice House in Durango, CO. He was 83 and a resident of Pagosa Springs since 2006.

Steve was born and raised in Benton Harbor, MI, attended Benton Harbor High School and went on to earn a degree in paper technology from Western Michigan University. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. In 1964 he married his first wife Marilyn with whom he had two children, Philip and Christine.

Steve served in the Navy from 1966 to 1968 as a radarman.

In later years he lived in the Pacific Northwest, Michigan and Iowa, working in various aspects of the paper industry. During his career he was named on several patents of which he was very proud. He was active in the Lions club, Relay for Life and other various charities and groups.

Steve was an avid skier and he retired to Pagosa Springs to enjoy the mountains and continue participating in the sport he loved. For a number of years he was also a ski instructor. He loved passing along his knowledge and passion for skiing to his students.

Steve’s other love was music. He enjoyed jazz and rat pack style, always supporting his local musicians. He was well known in the local music scene and went to see live music as often as he could.

Steve was married in the early 80’s to Trish, and in the 90’s to Merlin.

Steve is survived by his children, Philip Taylor (Beth) and Christine Fugleberg (Justin), four grandchildren Alana 22, Amanda 22, Allee 15, Finn 13 and his longtime companion/wife Joanne Haliday.

A celebration of Steve Taylor's life will be held on Saturday, September 6th, at 2 PM at our Community United Methodist church, 434 Lewis St., Pagosa Spgs, CO. 81147, followed by a Military Honors ceremony and a reception at the church. Donations in memory of Steve Taylor can be sent to the America Cancer Society at P.O. Box 370207 Denver CO. 80237 in Lieu of flowers.