Stephen "Steve" K. Bivin

Stephen “Steve” Keeth Bivin was born in Cleveland, Oklahoma on December 13, 1940. After a short battle with cancer, he departed this life on December 20, 2023, in Drumright to spend eternity in heaven.

Steve was one of four sons born to J.C. and Lurene (Rose) Bivin. He attended eleven years of school in Cleveland, Oklahoma until his father’s job relocated the family to Drumright in 1958 where Steve graduated from high school. After graduation, he attended Oklahoma State University serving in the ROTC and earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, with a focus in

Horticulture. After receiving his degree, he worked for his father for one year before joining the United States Navy in 1965, retiring in 1987 as a U.S. Naval Commander.

Steve met his wife of 50 years, Julie VanDeLinder in Sallisaw and were later married on November 17, 1973 forming a beautiful example of what a Godly marriage should be. From this marriage came their greatest accomplishments, their two sons Jeremy and Ryan. On top of raising two wonderful sons, Steve and Julie took on many business adventures. From 1977 to 1982 Steve was the Northeast Regional Manager for the Division of Oklahoma State Parks. From 1982 until 1992 they owned and operated an Intermediate Care Facility in Idabel until moving to Stroud to take on a new adventure of owning the Best Western Motel and Julie’s Restaurant.

Steve was an active and lifetime member of the American Legion and at the time of his death was serving as Vice-Commander of the Stroud American Legion. He was a member of the Davenport Lions Club and recently received his 50-year perfect attendance pin. During his life Steve was active in the Boy Scouts of America, one step away from becoming an Eagle Scout himself, and had the joy of helping his sons earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout his lifetime Steve enjoyed being part of many organizations such as the National Rifle Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Steve and Julie were proud members of the Happy O.K. Wanderers motorcoach club, making lifetime friends and memories. After retirement, for more than 15 years they explored the globe with their many friends and family.

Steve was a devout Christian and was a member of First Baptist Church in Davenport. He was grateful to be able to give back to others and knew it was God’s grace that enabled him to do so. Steve and Julie were generous with many charities and organizations, returning to others the blessings God had bestowed upon them.

In November, Steve and Julie’s friends and family came together to celebrate their 50 years of love. The Bivin’s had many life-long friends and family which was evident by their attendance at the celebration, many who traveled great distances to be a part of the special day. Steve and Julie felt the love bestowed upon them that day and it was truly a blessing. Steve was still talking about the wonderful party until his death.

Steve embodied the heart of a true American. He loved God, his family, and his community. He adored Julie and always wanted her by his side. As a father, Steve felt an immense sense of pride and accomplishment in seeing his sons, Jeremy and Ryan, choose career paths dedicated to serving others. Steve admired Jeremy’s decision to become a fireman and the bravery and selflessness required to protect and save lives. Ryan’s choice to become an educator brought joy and fulfillment to Steve’s heart. Seeing his son making a positive impact on young minds and shaping the future generations brought Steve great pride. He was an amazing Pappy to his grandchildren. He took great joy in witnessing their accomplishments and was always proud to brag about them. Whether it was their academic achievements, artistic talents, or sport victories, Steve never missed an

opportunity to celebrate and share their successes with others. Steve embraced his role as a proud father and adoring Pappy, creating lasting memories and instilling in them a sense of confidence and assurance.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Phil Bivin of Mountain Home, Arkansas.

He is survived by his wife, Julie, of the home, two sons, Jeremy and wife Lori of Stroud and Ryan and wife Lindsay of Sand Springs. Two brothers, David and his wife Josa of Jerusalem, Israel, and Stan and his wife Suzie of Ponca City and one sister-in-law Martha Bivin of Mountain Home, Arkansas. Brother-in-law Bill and Patty VanDeLinder of Langley, Oklahoma and sister-in-law Lynn and Ron Yowell of Bentonville, Arkansas. Grandchildren, Jacey Bivin, twins Kaley and Baley Bivin of Stroud, Blaze  Bivin of Alva, Rae and Drew Bivin of Sand Springs, Holly Beth Barrow and Jake Muret of Stroud. Hank and Elizabeth Lau, along with their children, Taylor and Boston, were also considered part of Steve’s family. Taylor and Boston also referred to him as “Pappy.” As well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Steve will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness and unwavering faith in God will continue to touch the lives of his family and friends for generations to come.