Steven Ray Oeth

Steven Ray Oeth, 73, of Elberfeld went to his eternal rest Friday, August 12th at Barnes Jewish Hospital, after battling his recent illness these last few months. He was born on March 12th, 1949 to the late Raymond and Janie Oeth of Elberfeld. Steve graduated from Tecumseh High School, then on to Indiana State University of Evansville, receiving his Bachelors of Communication in 1975. He served our country in the United States Navy and was a member of the Elberfeld American Legion Post 351. Steve and his family owned and operated Oeth Farm Service and Trucking, in Elberfeld. He was dedicated in providing the care his customers needed and considered the farmers his friends. Steve attended Oakland City Seminary and was a Lay Minister for over 45 years, serving at St. Johns in Bretzville, IN, St. Stephens in Warrenton, IN, and Zion United Church of Christ in Elberfeld, and many more. He faithfully served the community officiating numerous weddings and funerals. Steve was a gifted speaker and storyteller, relating the happiest and saddest moments of life to scripture. He brought joy to families in both times of sorrow and celebration. Steve was an active member of the community and served on various boards as Greer Township Trustee for many years. One of Steve’s proudest contributions was the years he portrayed Santa Claus at Mesker Park Zoo, and various local events. He embraced the spirit of Santa, a symbol of joy and hope year round. After battling illness for many years, Steve was granted the Gift of Life – a double lung transplant. For nearly 10 years he fought bravely and faced each health setback as a challenge. Steve was a pillar of his family and loved them dearly, including his furry four-legged, golf cart buddy Molly. Steve is survived by his true life’s love of 54 years, Marsha Carol (Cobb), his children, Kim (Jay) Ross, Jennifer Oeth, Melanie (Andrew) Klipsch, and Steven II – Bunky (Erin) Oeth. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren, Nastassja/Stasjy-bear (Andrew) Weaver, Reuben (Abby) Ross, Ian/Spike Anderson, Sam/Sambo Ross, Lillie/Lilliputian (Dylan) Johnson-Klipsch, Coretta/Kid Anderson, Izzy/Izzy-bee Klipsch, Gabby/Gabby-abby VanHoosier, Genavieve/Genna-baby Klipsch, Emily/Emmy-em VanHoosier, and great-granddaughter, Esme (Ray) Anderson; otherwise known as his Peanut Gallery. Steve is survived by brothers, Mike (Darlene) Oeth and Bob (Debby) Oeth, and sister Jane Ann (Dave) Hamby, aunt, Vera McCutchen, sister-n-laws Barbara (Sonny) Sitton and Brenda (Don) Lewis; with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Steve never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He believed “words are the most powerful things on earth”. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or register as an organ donor at organdonor.gov.