Steve Deleno Ritter

Steve Deleno Ritter, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Born on June 11, 1939, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Steve lived a life full of love and dedication to his family and his work.

Growing up in Glencoe, Oklahoma, Steve graduated from Eureka High School in 1957. He was a man of great ambition and determination, eventually becoming a skilled journeyman plumber. In 1986, he established Midland Mechanical Inc., which he owned and operated until his retirement in 2001. One of his passions outside of work was raising and working his cattle. His work was not just a job; it was a source of pride, reflecting his commitment and dedication to those he served.

Throughout his lifetime, Steve was known for his warm heart and generosity. He treasured moments with his family—his greatest accomplishment. Married in Marion, Kansas, he formed a partnership with his late wife, Peggy Sharpton Ritter, that became the cornerstone of a loving family. Together, they built a home filled with laughter and memories.

Among those who carry on his legacy are his loving daughter, Stephanie Pickens, and her husband, Bret; his devoted son, Tim Ritter, and his wife, Terri; and his treasured siblings, Norma Porter, Doyle Ritter, and Charlie Ritter. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren—Zack Ritter, Tyson Ritter, Bailey Ritter, Heath Pickens, Chad Pickens, and Cassandra Pickens—and great-grandchildren—Zoey Ritter, Otto Ritter, Viggo Ritter, Judah Pickens, Elise Pickens, Gideon Pickens, Knox Pickens, Irelynn Pickens, and Daisy Pickens. They will forever hold onto the memories of fishing trips, camping adventures, and days spent waterskiing, all activities he cherished in life.

Steve will be deeply missed by all who knew him, especially his family and friends who admired his kindness, dedication, and unwavering support. He was a comforting presence in their lives, a man who always placed his family first and made time to enjoy the beauty of nature with them.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy; his mother, Hazel Schoonover Ritter; his father, Warren Jewell Ritter; his siblings Johnny Ritter, Gene Ritter, Nellie Alderson, and Bob Ritter; and his infant daughter, Laura Anne.

A visitation will be held on June 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM with family greeting guests from 6-7 PM at Dighton Marler Funeral Home in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The funeral service will follow on June 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM, also at the same location. The graveside service will take place on June 14, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Glencoe South Cemetery in Glencoe, Oklahoma.

As we remember Steve Deleno Ritter, let us celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, humor, and the joy of family. His spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind.