Steven W. Keesling

Steven W. Keesling, 75, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 15, 1951, in New Castle to the late Kenneth and Barbara (Mills) Keesling-Ritchie.

Steve was a 1969 graduate of Daleville High School. For nearly 32 years, Steve worked as a Tool and Die Maker for General Motors retiring in 2009. He had a passion for serving his community of Middletown, volunteering over 20 years to the Middletown Fire Department where he served in many capacities and retired as Fire Chief. Steve and Phyllis also shared their love for the community by opening their home for “Santa’s Workshop” for 17 years, creating cherished Christmas memories for countless families and children.

After retirement, Steve and Phyllis spent their winters in Lake Placid, Florida, with some of their closest friends. They enjoyed traveling with family and friends over the years. Steve enjoyed his 67’ Camaro, going to car shows, racing and playing card games. He was a member of Ovid Community Church and attended Eastside Church while in Lake Placid.

Steve is survived by his wife of 53 years, Phyllis (Redding) Keesling; daughters, Deanna (Thom) Zimmer, Ada (Jason) Stucky, and Kari (Brian) Hess; grandchildren, Austin (Emily) Zimmer, Jackson Zimmer, Adilyn Zimmer, Max Stucky, Miles Stucky, and Layton Hess; great grandchild, Rosie; sister, Sue (Gary) Brown; brother-in-law, Denny (Lisa) Redding; sisters-in-law, Marcia Randolph, and Cherie Keesling; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Steve is preceded in death by his stepfather, Wayne Ritchie; in-laws, Dallas and Eileen Redding; and brother, Jack Keesling.

Visitation will be on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Ballard and Sons Funeral Home in Middletown. Services will be on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 am at Ovid Community Church with Pastors John David Delgado and Keith Wooden officiating. Burial will follow at Mechanicsburg Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be given in Steve's honor to InterAct Ministries of Canada
Box 559 Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0 give.canada@interactministries.org.