Remembering Orthopedic Surgeon Steve Theis

Orthopedic surgeon Steven W. Theis will always be remembered for his dedication to both his patients and his craft as well as love of life.

He passed away at home on Friday, January 8, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 77.

Born on September 24, 1943 in Barberton, Ohio, he spent much of his early years in Pennsylvania where he graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School. He then attended Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and the graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

After graduating medical school in 1969, he did his residency and a fellowship in orthopedic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he was chief resident.

Theis was also a major in the United States Air Force. He was chief of orthopedic surgery at Elgin Air Force Base Regional Hospital. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal in 1976.

Theis then went on to set up his own practice in Washington and Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Before retiring in January 2013, he also spent several years with Advanced Orthopaedics and Rehab.

He married his wife Raine in 2001 and when he retired, they moved to The Landings in Savannah, Georgia.

In 2014, Theis was diagnosed with a second occurrence of head and neck cancer which required surgery that left he unable to speak or eat for the rest of his life. He didn’t let his illness keep him from enjoying life as much as possible though.

He loved following college basketball especially the Duke Blue Devils and enjoyed woodworking and photography. He and Raine spent many hours playing bridge and every year hosted their Midpoint Halloween Party.

Theis is survived by his wife Raine and his three daughters, two stepchildren and fifteen grandchildren as well as his three sisters and brother.