Stephen Douglas Whittle's Obituary
Stephen Douglas Whittle, 73, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his residence on Friday, December 5, 2025, surrounded by the love that defined his remarkable life.
Born in July 18, 1952 in Tulsa, Steve graduated from East Central High School with the Class of 1970, where he distinguished himself as a dedicated wrestler. His athletic spirit and competitive heart would remain with him throughout his life.
In 1969, while working at Safeway, Steve met the love of his life, Loretta, through her mother's introduction. He immediately commented on how cute she was, and after a five-year courtship, the couple married on June 7, 1975, in Tulsa. Their union of over 50 years was blessed with two sons, Thomas and Jesse, and became a testament to unwavering devotion and partnership.
Steve proudly served the Tulsa community as a firefighter with the Tulsa Fire Department, where his commitment extended beyond emergency response. He served as President of IAFF Local 176, the Tulsa firefighters' union, advocating tirelessly for his brothers and sisters in service. His dedication to the union and the firefighting profession exemplified his selfless nature and leadership.
As a father, Steve was loving, caring, and completely dedicated to every aspect of his sons' lives. He coached baseball, attended countless sporting events and band concerts, and never missed a birthday or holiday celebration. He was the kind of man who could fix anything and would drop everything to help-always just a phone call away. His grandchildren, Zac, Neo, and Lia, knew him as a devoted "Pops" who was actively involved in every milestone of their lives.
Steve had a gift for memorable sayings that his family will forever cherish: "stay low," "the truth will set you free," and his enthusiastic "nice try!" when enjoying a particularly delicious meal. A die-hard Oklahoma Sooners fan, he proudly converted all three grandchildren to wear crimson, even managing to win over his daughter-in-law Angie, despite her being a Cowboy graduate.
When his beloved wife, "Lolo," battled cancer, Steve's devotion shone brightest. He was wholeheartedly dedicated to her care, unquestionably putting family first-as he always had. He also lovingly cared for both his mother and mother-in-law, handling everything from yard work to hair appointments with the same servant's heart he showed to all.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve loved fishing at Oklahoma's state parks with his children and enjoyed sailing. A devoted NASCAR enthusiast and big fan of Dale Earnhardt, his passion for racing even led him to work as a pit road fireman at the Texas Motor Speedway. In later years, boxing became a favorite pastime, and he became actively involved at The Engine Room, where the sport helped him manage Parkinson's disease with characteristic determination. Steve fought Parkinson's disease for 14 years. He never gave up, but in later years it took a toll on his body and prevented him from the things he loved to do.
Steve's refrigerator always held his favorite treat-Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, which he insisted tasted best when cold. It was one of countless small details that made him uniquely Steve-a man who was completely selfless, utterly reliable, and wholly devoted to serving others.
He was loved by so many and he loved all in return. He was a friend to everyone. He will be greatly missed.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his devoted wife of over 50 years, Loretta "Lolo" Whittle; sons, Thomas Whittle and Jesse Whittle and his wife Angie; three cherished grandchildren, Zac, Neo, and Lia; brother, Randall Whittle and his wife Erin; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless friends, fellow firefighters, and community members whose lives he touched.
A memorial service will be held in the Rivercrest Chapel 10 AM Monday, December 15. A reception will follow in the Great Room.
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