Stephen Rittenhouse

It is with great sadness that the family of Stephen Todd Rittenhouse announce his unexpected passing on February 14, 2025. Steve, was born on July 7, 1966, the beloved only son of Ralph and Joyce (Yoe) Rittenhouse who preceded him in death and cherished brother to Retonna Roberts and Lois Everhart. A lifelong resident of Frankfort, Steve's spirit and love for his community left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him and hearing him greet them with, "Hey, friend!".

A 1985 graduate of Adena High School, known as the "Turtle Man", he will be remembered for his hard work ethic, love of life, and the quiet strength he carried throughout his life. Though sometimes perceived as stubborn, his loyalty and commitment to those he cherished were never in question.

He found the love of his life in the former Kim Oberer. They were married June 13, 1998 and shared a beautiful life filled with joy and companionship. They loved to travel together and with friends and family. They enjoyed adventures in Key West, Oahu, Maui, Colorado, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, Put-In-Bay, Holden Beach, Jamaica, New York, Florida, Gatlinburg and Nashville. Together they share a wonderful family including their children: Sara {John) Rolfe, Frankfort, Laura Brown, Denver, CO, Paul {Jessica} Brown, Clarksburg, Zak Rittenhouse, Minneapolis, MN, and Ethan (Jessica) Rittenhouse of Chillicothe. His grandchildren were the light of his life: Grace Rolfe, Kohwen Brown, Ledger Rolfe, Vantz Rolfe, Kelsea Brown, Reid Brown, Austin Knapp, Hudson Rittenhouse, Hunter Rittenhouse, Anneliese Rittenhouse, and Elijah Rittenhouse.

A passionate supporter of the Adena Warriors, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Ohio State Buckeyes, Steve's enthusiasm for his favorite teams (including whatever team his grandchildren were playing for) was contagious, bringing friends and family together for countless memorable games. His love for sports, including his fight in the local Tough Man competition, was only rivaled by his devotion to the great outdoors, where he spent many happy hours camping, hunting, fishing, and enjoying a cold beer with friends. There was no better campfire than a Rittenhouse fire and he always knew where he got the wood he burnt.

Steve's dedication to service was evident in his active membership and holding offices such as Chaplain of the Sons of the American Legion Post 483, Frankfort, lifetime member and 3rd Vice President of Amvets Post 4, and lifetime member of VFW post 108. Here he formed lasting friendships and contributed to his community. Known for his willingness to help others and his infectious laughter, Steve was a friend to many. Steve was a member and trustee of Dry Run Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his son, Ryan Levi Rittenhouse, with whom he is certainly now having a beer and fishing in heaven.

As we remember Steve, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and memories. Calling hours are Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 11 am - 1 pm at the Ebright Funeral Home, Frankfort with the funeral service immediately following. Interment is at Brown's Chapel Cemetery, Clarksburg.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Sons of the American Legion Post 483, PO Box 253, Frankfort, OH 45628 in memory of Steve Rittenhouse. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

See you soon, Friend!!