Owen K. Steinbach M.D

Born in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania to Mary and Morris Steinbach in 1922, Dr. Owen K. Steinbach passed away peacefully on August 12, 2015. Dr. Steinbach was a highly accomplished Fresno physician who worked for over sixty years and into his eighties. He left medicine to share life with Helen, his beloved wife of sixty-seven years.

Educated at UCLA and UC Berkeley, where he was awarded his B. A. and M. D., Dr. Steinbach completed an Internship at Los Angeles County Hospital. When he returned from the Korean War, leaving the military with the rank of Captain, his Residency took him to the VA Hospital in Los Angeles where he met Helen Ritucci, who would become his future wife and constant companion. Later he received a fellowship in cardiology. During this time, Dr. Steinbach established North Palm Medical, one of the first group practices in Fresno.

Owen and Helen savored the experience of travel. Italy, Israel, Portugal, Spain, France, Greece, Russia, and Mexico were some of their favorite adventures. Upon returning from these remarkable trips, they imparted tales of their unique journeys. Owen and Helen frequently met fellow travelers who later became close friends. Throughout his life, Dr. Steinbach maintained his allegiance to the Pittsburgh Pirates and Steelers. He also took delight in his animals. Dogs, cats, horses cattle, sheep, pheasants and peacocks could be found grazing on the ranch. His four sons inherited this empathy for four legged creatures from their father.

Regardless of his retirement, Dr. Steinbach spent time at the medical library of St. Agnes Hospital. On a weekly basis, he remained fascinated with current scientific research, listening to medical cassettes even while driving. He also enjoyed life on the farm. From different vantage points on the ranch, he “watched” the orange trees grow and the grape vines flourish. Frequently, he could be found taking long walks with his favorite canine companion, Dukie, to see his orchards thrive. Owen also treasured his four sons, who visited often to hear his exuberant narratives. He had a gift of storytelling. Highly intelligent with an extraordinary sense of humor, Owen charmed everyone he met. Former patients recognized and acknowledged him. Long after he left medicine, his family would hear of his talent for medicine, compassion for his patients, charismatic personality and personal humility. Another doctor once called him a “Fresno monument.”

Dr. Steinbach is survived by his devoted wife, Helen, his four sons, Stewart and his wife Gina, Kenneth and his wife Stella, Jay and his wife Maureen and Geoffrey and his wife Jennifer. In addition to four sons, he leaves his grandchildren that include David Owen, Ian Howard, Cassandra Marie, Samantha Lee, Cole Matthew and his precious pup Dukie.

Owen’s passion for medicine never waned, but he loved more than anything, being surrounded by his family for special occasions or just casual visits. He was an extraordinary husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather and will be remembered by the family he cherished and the community of patients who regarded him as their esteemed Dr. Steinbach.

Remembrances may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.