Kenneth Dean Sterns

Kenneth Dean Sterns, a long-time resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma, died May 16, 2016, in Plano, Texas, where he was residing at the time. He was 86. Born March 19, 1930, to Kenneth Winkles Sterns and Ethyl (Felts) Sterns in Hiawatha, Kansas, Kenneth graduated from Hiawatha High School in 1948. A standout high school athlete and fierce competitor, Kenneth continued his athletic excellence at Baker University in Baldwin, Kansas. Standing an impressive 6'7", he was the conference's leading scorer in basketball, a four-year letterman, and three-year all-conference center. He also lettered in track each year at Baker, still holding the high jump record. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. After graduation in 1952, Kenneth worked in the insurance industry for four years in Kansas City, Missouri, before moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with his wife, Helen (Swayze) Sterns. He began a sales career in the building materials industry, joining the Swayze family business at Independent Material Company. He retired in 1987. For many years, Kenneth and Helen were active in showing, breeding, and promoting Irish Setters, turning out many champions from their kennel. Thanks to Helen and their daughter, Jane, Kenneth shifted from showing dogs to showing Morgan Horses. Kenneth became an accomplished and competitive exhibitor in the show ring, winning numerous championships and friends. When he wasn't in the show ring, you would always find him ringside, encouraging and cheering on Jane. Kenneth loved to travel. He and Helen traveled extensively across the U.S. showing their Irish Setters and Morgan Horses. Upon retirement, they focused their travels on the Southwest, always enjoying the view and open road. Kenneth also enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf, cars, RVing, and traveling. Kenneth was predeceased by his wife, Helen. He leaves his daughter Jane Sterns Cashel, son-in-law Darrin Cashel, granddaughter Ashley Cashel, grandson Adam Cashel, sister-in-law JoAnn Swayze McKinney, and niece Marsha McKinney Abney, among other relatives and friends.