John Thomas Stein

Though our hearts are broken, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved John Thomas Stein, who left this world on May 8, 2026, at his cherished home in Claremore, Oklahoma, surrounded by friends and the gentle whispers of nature. Born on October 6, 1950, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, John lived a life defined by love, warmth, and generosity which left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

John was the son of William A. Stein and Doris E. Stein, both of whom predeceased him. He is also reunited in peace with his brother, Richard W. Stein, and his beloved wife, Barbara K. Stein, whose memory he cherished deeply.

John's legacy of kindness and compassion lives on in the hearts of his surviving family: his sister Barbara J. Hill and her husband Pete, nephews and niece, Lincoln Hill, Jeffrey Hill, and Mary Jo Dureell. In addition to family, John leaves behind treasured friends, Dave and Ann Feroe, Cherié Johnson, Dawn Garrett and Jamie Baker, Paul and Rozanne Cherry, Ron Parker, and Miranda Smilie, all of whom he considered family.

From February 1971 to June 1972, John proudly served his country in Vietnam with the United States Army, a chapter of his life he held with immense pride. During his active duty, John was decorated with the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar (M-16). Following his service, John moved to Tulsa in 1988 and dedicated his career to computer programming at American Airlines.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was a man of many passions. An avid coin collector, he found joy in the history and stories each piece carried. His love of artistry shone through his practice of calligraphy, a hobby that brought beauty to every stroke. A devoted sports enthusiast, John especially enjoyed professional football and NASCAR racing, and was a huge Turner Classic Movies buff. John found his greatest peace and pleasure outdoors, spending countless hours tending flowerbeds alongside his beautiful bride, Barbara.

John's love for food was as expansive as his heart. He was a weekly visitor to Mom's Diner in Owasso and Gibby's in Claremore, always eager to share a meal with friends. His affinity for sweet treats often led him on road trips to City Bites in Oklahoma City, where he indulged in chocolate-drizzled peanut butter cookies, bringing back dozens to share.

John will be remembered for his infectious smile and laughter, generous spirit, and unwavering concern for the well-being of those around him. His home was a place of warmth, kindness, and welcome to all who entered.

Graveside service to honor and celebrate John's life will be held on June 1, 2026, at 11:00 am at Spring Town Cemetery, located in Gentry, Arkansas. Father Ernesto Calvillo of Saint Thérèse Catholic Church in Collinsville, Oklahoma, will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that donations be made in John's memory to the ASPCA of Tulsa, reflecting his deep love and respect for all living creatures. Donations can be made at https://www.tulsaspca.org

As we say farewell to John, we remember a man whose life was a testament to kindness, love, and quiet generosity. May John’s memory continue to inspire all who knew him, and may he rest in eternal peace, forever cherished in our hearts.