
Stephen Keith Mendenhall was born August 24, 1954 in Tulsa, OK to Fred Lee & Gladys Levon (Black) Mendenhall and passed from this life March 14, 2015 in Tulsa, OK at the age of 60.
Steve proudly served in the United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge he came back with a strong patriotic affection that would be voiced in his politics and his strong love of country. Once stateside Steve began his lifelong career as a construction contractor combined with becoming a real estate broker. His life was spent on hard work leaving behind a legacy of work that would stand for a long time. When not working Steve enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and walking his dog, Niko. He will always be loved and greatly missed by his family.
Stephen was preceded in death by his father and his brother, David Ray Mendenhall. He is survived by his mother; his wife, Gitta R. (Thelemann) Mendenhall; his children, Stephen Lee Mendenhall, Margaretta Mendenhall and John Thelemann-Williams; his siblings, Fern Scheulen, Freddy Mendenhall, Stan Mendenhall and Kevin Workman; and his grandchildren, Charlie and Ella.
Stephen will lie in state 10-8 p.m. Tuesday with family receiving friends from 4-6 p.m. with his funeral service held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, both at the Ninde Brookside Funeral Home Chapel.
Gitta ,my sincere condolences to you and your family at this difficult time. May God give you and your family comfort and peace . Sincerly Jerry Retan
Jerry Retan
A Thousand Winds Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die. My sincerest condolences. Michaelene
Michaelene Bolan
It was beyond shocking and sad to learn of Stephen's death. It's hard to imagine such a powerful force leaving us so prematurely. For his daughter, Margaretta, our kids, Charlie and Eliana, and myself, he will always be remembered for his larger-than-life presence, his kindness, and unconditional love and support for his family. He was a fierce protector of his daughter and his family. Margaretta's gifts for managing complex matters, attention to detail, seeing things through, and undeniable loyalty are owed to her father. Every time we were all together, I was amazed at how connected and similar they were and inspired that a parent can so deeply influence a child in so many positive ways. I hope my son and daughter grow up reflecting the values and character of their "Papa Bear: And may his memory always be for a blessing. -Scott
Scott Levine
To the mendenhall family. I'm so sorry to hear about steve. I worked with him at Fo-mac many years ago. He was my boss! Its hard to imagine him gone. My heart and prayers go out to his family who he loved sooo much... REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND HELEN LEPHEW
HELEN LEPHEW
Gitta, Stephen, Margaretta & rest of the Mendenhall family... I am so sad hearing about the death of my friend, former real estate associate, and good man, "Stephen K. Mendenhall". Steve taught me so much about construction, real estate, family, honor, character, courage, reputation, marksmanship, good food and so much more. He was always very helpful, unselfish & giving of his skills, his knowledge and his time. My daughters loved Steve as much as I and my wife. Twenty years ago when my daughters were young, it was always agreed between my wife, my 2 daughters, and I... That if ANYTHING EVER HAPPENED to mom & dad; or if we couldn't be reached in case of an emergency... everyone knew they could always call and trust our good and honorable friend- Mr. Stephen K. Mendenhall. And we were all certain that Steve would ALWAYS be there & come to our aid and assistance- no matter the time or day. There is no better human being than Mr. Stephen K. Mendenhall. (My tribute continued below)
Randy S. Lindemuth
(Continued from first condolence message above) Besides the sadness and tragedy of Steve's passing, I just heard by phone at 1 PM today, March 18, 2015- 2 hours after his funeral services. Mark Pagel, a carpenter that had worked with Steve on several construction projects just learned himself from a painter that knew Steve as they purchased materials at Home Depot. Had Mark and I known earlier-- certainly Mark, myself and my family would have attended Steve's services and celebration of life. Our prayers for peace for the Mendenhall family, and with our deep sympathies to everyone in these very difficult days and times. WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER our friend, Mr. STEVE MENDENHALL. We will always thank GOD and appreciate our privilege to know, learn and adore such a good and righteous human being. Like you, we will truly miss Steve- including his infectious smile and laughter. In much sadness, Randy S. Lindemuth Julie G. Lindemuth Dr. Mary K. Lindemuth, and Caroline G. Lindemuth
Randy S. Lindemuth
Gitta, I am saddened to hear about Steve's untimely death and at a loss for words. Steve will be missed. He touched many peoples lives over the years in a positive way. With deepest sympathy. Becky Green
Becky Green
Truly sorry for your loss. I will be praying for peace. Love Sharon Mendenhall
Sharon Mendenhall
Stephen's passing is especially sad because he always had so much life. Whether it was working on improving his throwing hatrchet, or another of the daily challenges he seemed to find, Steve attacked it with gusto that is normally seen in much younger men. I admired Steve for this and the many things he was involved with. Steve stood for honesty and integrity, doing the right thing was his creed. I am sorry to see a good man go, but he lived life to its fullest. Rest easy Stephen, you have earned your rest.
Eduardo Martinez