Steven Wayne Cain

Steve came into this world weighing 9 lbs. 10 oz. He was the heaviest of all his 7 siblings. He was born to Jack and Maria Cain in 1950, the same year that the family moved into a new home in SW Oklahoma City. Steve attended Sacred Heart Catholic School but not sure he cared much about it as his sister remembers the nuns coming to her asking where her brother Steve was and she replied, “Mom dropped us both off this morning for school”. The nuns looked at each other and shook their heads and his sister knew Steve was going to get it as he was nowhere to be found – this had now become a habit.

Shortly after, we all were put in public school, probably because of Steve, but oh well, we all did not mind public school that much, at least we wouldn’t get our knuckles wacked with a ruler from sister whomever. Steve thrived in public school and was even promoted a grade or two. He then attended Webster Junior High and ultimately Southeast High School where he loved playing football. He followed his brother John who played football and the line was called the “Cain’s Raiders”.

Following high school Steve enlisted in the US Army and left for boot camp shortly after graduation. He immediately was sent to Vietnam and served in ALPHA Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry, 199th Light Infantry Brigade “The Redcatchers” (Always ALPHA). He was then transferred to 3rd Platoon, ALPHA Company, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Above the Rest). Steve was promoted to Sergeant. While at the 101st Airborne Division he met another “Okie,” Mike Carretero, who became his lifelong trusted friend. Steve loved serving his country and especially the men he served with. Mike informed us that when Steve joined the 101st Airborne he also became an Adopted Son of San Mateo, CA, as they adopted the unit and sent packages and letters to them through this trying time.

He returned from Nam and started his own business as a Plumbing, Heat and Air Contractor. Steve was a perfectionist and took pride in every job he did. During this time, he met the love of his life Christine, and they were married and had a home built in Edmond, Oklahoma. Steve and Chris had one child, named Ryan. Ryan was the joy of their life. The neighborhood/school kids would always go to the Cain’s house and Steve and Chris loved it. Steve and Chris loved nature and the outdoors and were many times awarded “Edmond’s Beautiful Yard of the Week”.

As life had it, Steve lost his beautiful wife to a sudden illness, and this left Steve and Ryan. Ryan adored his dad, so he stayed close by. Steve retired from his business and the two of them would occasionally go on outings to Steve’s property on 8-mile mountain in far SE Oklahoma, a remote mountainous area with no amenities, but Steve loved it as this was where Steve said he felt at peace.

Steve talked about his neighbors continually as they all supported him through the loss of his wife and son. He loved his home (that his wife put her heart and soul into) and his dogs “Sweet Pea” and “Honeybun”. He attended numerous reunions of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade “The Redcatchers” as Steve kept in touch with these brave men who had such a tremendous impact on his life. His home was always decorated with memories of his military service, and his wife and son.

Steve ultimately went to the VA Hospital with a terminal illness. The family wants to express their sincere appreciation for the care Steve received during this time from the Veteran’s Hospital. Dr. Steinburg and Dr. Andrews were amazing and provided a report daily on Steve’s progress – they made sure Steve understood what was happening to him. The nurses and aides were so gentle and kind as Steve would tell them to “whoa, wait a minute, I have to do this in my own time” – anyone who knew Steve, knew he was not to be rushed. He particularly liked one nurse who he nicknamed, “Honey Bear”, thank you Honey Bear for your patience and sweet care of our brother. Catholic Deacon Herbert Vance came to visit Steve each day and pray with him. Steve asked that we get his rosary and that last rites be performed. At his passing, Deacon Herb performed the Rosary.

Steve is survived by his brothers John and Lafe and sister Anne and countless in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and Aunt MiMi. Steve had one grandchild. Steve will be missed by his family and countless war heroes, friends, and neighbors.

There will be a graveside service at the Fort Sill National Cemetery in Elgin, Oklahoma on September 29, 2022, at l:00 p.m. Family and friends are encouraged to get to Fort Sill between 12:30 and 12:45 p.m., as we will promptly start the procession and services at 1 p.m. sharp. Once you pull into the gates at Fort Sill, please line your vehicle on the right hand side of the drive, opposite of the office.

In lieu of flowers, please donate, in honor of Steve, at your local Humane Society. In closing, Steve would say - ALWAYS ALPHA.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.baggerley.com for the Cain family.