Dr. Stephen J. Adelson, a beloved pediatrician who dedicated his life to caring for children, passed away on September 24, 2024, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was 91 years old.

Born on August 26, 1933, in Kittanning, Pennsylvania, Steve faced early adversity, losing both parents by the age of three. He spent his early years in Sharon, Pennsylvania, before returning to Kittanning at age eight. Despite these challenges, Steve's resilience and determination led him to excel academically.

Steve attended Cornell University, where he not only earned a BA in Biology in 1955, but also met the love of his life, Ellen Gussman. The couple married in 1957, beginning a partnership that would span decades.

After Cornell, Steve pursued his medical education at Hahnemann Medical School. His journey in medicine took him from Philadelphia to his residency in pediatrics at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, and two years in the army at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, before he finally settled in Tulsa, Oklahoma. There, he established himself as a respected pediatrician, a career he cherished until his retirement at the age of 80.

Dr. Adelson leaves behind a legacy of compassion and care, having touched the lives of countless children and families throughout his long career. He is survived by his wife Ellen, their four sons - David (Carol), Robert (Marta), James (Susannah), and Thomas (Bernadette); Julie Adelson and Chris Lowers - as well as thirteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Steve is also survived by Stephen and Barbara Heyman, his brother and sister-in-law and their daughter Alexandra and her family. He was blessed to have enjoyed a particularly long and close friendship with Mr. Heyman.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Adelson was known for his dry sense of humor and quick wit. He found joy in life's simple pleasures, particularly his morning breakfasts at Queenie's. An avid horse racing enthusiast, he occasionally returned home as a "big winner" from the track, attributing his success to his keen knowledge of specific jockeys.

Dr. Adelson's life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of humor in the face of life's challenges. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the many patients whose lives he touched over his long and distinguished career.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Dr. Adelson's life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his memory, be made to a children's charity of your choice.

Funeral Services will be Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 11 am, at Congregation B'nai Emunah, in Tulsa.
Fitzgerald Ivy Chapel, 918-585-1151