Steven James Heaton

Steven James Heaton, age 67 of Maple Grove, passed away in his home on December 26, 2023. He was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on December 6, 1956, to parents Delfina and Harley Heaton. Steven’s family moved around frequently during his childhood for his parents’ military careers – Delfina in the Marines and Harley in the Navy. Based in Laurel, Maryland for most of his youth, Steven also spent time visiting his mother’s family in El Salvador.

Steven graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance. He met the love of his life, Lisa Nichols, in 1982 while they were performing in a musical at the Rockville Little Theatre in Rockville, Maryland. After accidentally falling into the orchestra pit, he asked her out. She accepted as a “pity date” - a joke Lisa made that they shared with friends for many years. They married three months later in October of 1982 and were blessed with their son Jordan in 1987 and daughter Emma in 1991. The Heatons relocated to Minnesota in 1995.

Steven carried his love of music and singing with him to his new home state. This love continued to be a major cornerstone of his life. A baritone, Steven performed for many weddings, funerals and solos. He was also part of the Minnesota Chorale, Two Rivers Chorale, Summer Singers, Kantorei, Vox Nova, and other groups.

Steven was continually active with Osseo United Methodist Church for over 20 years, and could be found singing in the choir, playing the hand bells, or greeting members at the door on most Sundays. Before joining OUMC, Steven and family were members of Grace United Methodist Church in Gaithersburg, MD for nine years.

Steven loved sci-fi, writing poetry, woodworking, and fishing. He also loved camping, especially the many summer trips he took with his brother and his best friends.

Steven is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Lisa; son, Jordan (Leah) Heaton and daughter, Emma Heaton (Kevin Shermock); brothers, Harley (Rebecca) and Larry Heaton. He is preceded in death by his parents, Delfina and Harley.

Steven was a funny, kind, sensitive, and thoughtful person who had a special bond with his daughter, friends, and his community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers family and friends are encouraged to donate to the Two Rivers Chorale in Steven’s name ( https://www.tworiverschorale.org/donate ).

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, January 6, 2024, with visitation at 3:00 PM, at Osseo United Methodist Church, 16 Second Ave. SE, Osseo.