Obituary of Steve W. Riter

Steve W. Riter, age 51, slipped peacefully, into his father, Ray Riter’s arms and into the Lord’s kingdom on June 15, 2011. Steve fought a tough battle against esophageal cancer for 10 months with courage and strength. He was always more concerned about others than himself even in the final days of his life.   Steve graduated from Stow High School in 1979. He worked at Wheeler Boyce for many years. In 1997 Steve began working for his mother and father at A Crano Excavating. Steve took great pride in his job and was so proud to be part of the family business. Steve’s proudest accomplishment was being a father. His son, Jeremy, filled his heart with love and his life with joy. When Steve wasn’t with family he could be found at local coffee shops such as the Café in Stow or Tip Top, where he was a friend to all. He also spent time lending a helping hand to neighbors, friends and family. He loved helping others, by cleaning their garages, washing their cars, pruning trees and bushes or by just keeping them company. Steve never needed to be asked to do anything because he always offered his help and did everything with a smile. Steve’s smile could light up a room and he could make everyone laugh until they cried. Steve had such a kind and generous spirit that will never be forgotten.   Steve was preceded in death just six short months ago by his dad, Ray Riter. His memory and smile will be cherished by his son, Jeremy Riter; mother Ruth (Crano) Riter; brothers Tony (Cathy) Riter, Jim (Kelly) Riter, Raymond (Jennifer) Riter and his sister Diane (Jeff) Teague.  He will also be deeply missed by his aunts Althea, Maura, Jean and Patty. Steve had 15 nieces and nephews who also filled his life with great happiness. Steve had numerous friends who were like family. He cherished every relationship he had.   We have to remember Steve’s own words after dad passed, “Everything is going to be okay. We are going to get through this because we have each other.” We all could benefit by living more like Steve with a positive attitude, an unselfish heart and a zest for life.   Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home for visitation Friday 6 to 9 PM, where Rev. Curt Thomas will conduct service Saturday 10:30 AM. Burial at Silver Springs Cemetery. Should friends desire, memorials may be made to Haven of Rest, P.O. Box 547, Akron, 44398-6110 or Summa Palliative Care, 525 East Market Street, P.O. Box 2090, Akron, 44398-9976.  Steve's video tribute may be seen here.