Stephen Kincaide

A kind and gentle man, Stephen Francis Kincaide, 71, of Nowata, Oklahoma, met Jesus on July 5, 2022, surrounded by love in his home. Steve courageously fought cancer for nearly two years with resilience and hope.

Born January 22, 1951, to Charlotte Whitford Kincaide and John Kenneth Kincaide, Steve grew up in Nowata with his two younger siblings, Lonetta and K.C., and graduated from Nowata High School in 1969. He received his associate degree at NEO A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma, and furthered his education at Oklahoma University. He then attended Spartan School of Aeronautics, receiving a degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology/Airframe and Powerplant. Later he was licensed as a plumber and contractor for more than 40 years. Steve kept his contractor’s license current, so he never actually “retired.”

On June 25, 2004, Steve married the love of his life, Lisa, and cherished their 18-year marriage. Together they traveled many places and particularly enjoyed visiting Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the state of Colorado. Steve and Lisa were active members of Nowata First Church of God.

Steve had many hobbies and interests over the years. Whatever he attempted, he mastered quickly and with excellence. He built and flew fuel-powered model airplanes, mastered traditional and 3D archery, and enjoyed any competition, especially in Colorado, where he also loved snow skiing. He was an avid fly fisherman and enjoyed tying flies, and he enjoyed hunting elk and deer. A skilled woodturner, he created masterpieces that are cherished by family and friends. His kind heart was evident in his love for animals of any kind. His love for God was shown by his study of the Bible and his devotion to God both personally and publicly.

Affectionately called “Rino” by his family, Steve was described by others as a gentle giant, strong tower, friend, a rock, loyal, faithful, patient, and kind with a loving spirit. He went to heaven with a smile on his face and Lisa and family by his side.

Steve is survived by his wife, Lisa, of the home; a sister, Lonetta Sprague and husband Robert of Cleveland, Oklahoma; a brother, K.C., and wife Jackie of Spring, Texas; an aunt, Hilda Kelly, of Magdalena, New Mexico; two stepsons: Grant Gingerich and wife Melissa of Claremore, Oklahoma; and Blake Gingerich and wife Carissa of Ochelata; four granddaughters: Ella, Georgia, Claire and Natalie Gingerich; a daughter, Teryl Pokoski of Owasso, Oklahoma; two grandsons: Jaiden and Kellen; and many other close family members and friends whom Steve adored. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cornerstone Hospice played an exceptional role with Steve’s care as did his daughter-in-law, Melissa Gingerich. The kindness shown through this long cancer journey by family, friends, First Church of God, and the community has made an eternal impact.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held Tuesday, July 19, at 2 p.m. at Nowata First Church of God. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Steve’s memory to Nowata First Church of God at 408 S. Pine St. Nowata, OK 74048 or the Nowata Historical Society at 136 S. Oak St. Nowata, OK 74048.