Carol "Ritter" Steger

Carol Ritter Steger passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on August 12, 2025, at Twin Lakes Skilled Nursing in Cincinnati, surrounded by family and friends.

Carol is survived by her daughter Tracy McClorey and son-in-law Jeff McClorey; her son Martin Steger and daughter-in-law Rhonda Steger; her beloved grandchildren Dillan McClorey (fiancée Michelle Bruno), Natalie McClorey (husband Taylor Brammer), and Zemmie Steger; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Cora Brammer. She is also survived by her sister, Jean Dermott, as well as her close niece and nephew, Lynn Dermott and Michael Dermott (husband James Chappelle), with whom she shared a special bond.

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carol was the daughter of Virginia and Delmar Ritter. She was a proud graduate of Avalon High School, where she was both an accomplished athlete and elected Homecoming Queen-early reflections of her charisma, spirit, and leadership.

Carol led a rich and varied professional life. She began her career at Alcoa in Pittsburgh, quickly rising to manage a secretarial pool. With the birth of her first child, she devoted herself to being a full-time mother for 13 years. After this chapter of dedicating herself to family life, Carol re-entered the workforce, advancing with distinction in every role she took on.

While serving as Personnel Manager at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, she met the love of her life, Joe Steger. They were married in 1978, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, friendship, and mutual support.

Carol continued her professional journey as a director at The Common Fund in Westport, Connecticut, before becoming a leader of event planning at the University of Cincinnati Foundation. There, she was known for hosting unforgettable formal balls and themed fundraisers.

For nearly two decades, Carol served as a vital force beside her husband during his tenure as President of the University of Cincinnati. As the university's First Lady, she played a significant role in donor relations and fundraising efforts, leaving a lasting legacy in the academic and civic communities.

Despite her demanding professional life, Carol's family was always at the center of her heart. She was a devoted and joyful grandmother whose holiday celebrations-especially Christmas-were legendary. She delighted in gathering friends and family at her cherished cabin on Drummond Island, Michigan, a place of laughter and memories.

Carol had a deep love for music, enjoying classic tunes from all genres throughout her life. At Twin Lakes Assisted Living, she was known as a dear friend and advocate to many, always offering a listening ear and a warm smile.

Carol often said that laughter was the most important thing, even during life's hardest moments. Her infectious laugh, stories of her life, and unwavering love will be remembered by all who knew her.

A private celebration of Carol's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Carol's memory to the University of Cincinnati Dr. Steger Presidential Scholarship Fund. Contributions can be directed to:

University of Cincinnati Foundation
P.O. Box 19970
Cincinnati, OH 45219
or online at Dr. Steger Presidential Scholarship Fund