Steven R. Crouch

1966 - 2025

STEVEN R. CROUCH

June 15, 1966 – March 16, 2025

Steven R. Crouch is survived by his wife, Renee Crouch; their children, Corbin, Canon, and Ivy Crouch; his parents, Layton and Ellen Crouch; his sister, Stacey Smith, her husband Todd, and their three children, Natalie, Allison, and Luke Smith.

Steve dedicated 34 years of his life to practicing as a psychotherapist, from 1991 until March 13, 2025. His commitment to helping others was nothing short of extraordinary, especially considering his personal battles with cancer. Over the course of four separate diagnoses in 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004, Steve faced numerous types of cancer. Despite these challenges, he never wavered in his commitment to his patients.

In 2012, Steve was diagnosed with Lymphoma after a PET scan. The doctor was convinced it was Lymphoma and advised him to prepare for surgery, as it was a high-risk procedure. He was told to go home, get his affairs in order, and say goodbye to his family, including his children. The surgery was intense due to the location of the Lymphoma, and the risk was great–Steve could have died on the operating table. However, after the surgery, the doctor was stunned to find that it wasn't Lymphoma at all, but rather Sarcoidosis. Later that year, Steve had his spleen removed as the Sarcoidosis began affecting his lymph nodes, spleen, heart, lungs, and eyes. Along with this diagnosis, he also developed a thickening blood disorder that made his blood clot like old paint. Despite all of this, Steve continued to focus on the present, using his own struggles as a way to help others rather than dwell on fear or unfairness.

Steve's journey to success was unconventional. Although he didn't earn a traditional high school diploma, opting instead for a GED due to his rebellious nature, he always found humor in telling his patients stories about his childhood and his loving relationship with his parents. He always wanted to make them proud.

Steve earned his Bachelor of Science on June 10, 1989, and his Master of Science in Counseling on his 25th birthday, June 15, 1991. He was known for his unorthodox approach to therapy and life. Always open and curious, Steve found new ways to approach mental health. In 2010, he discovered a therapy called The Three Principles, which shifted his focus from mental illness to mental health.

Steve married Renee M. Ortiz on December 5, 1992. Together, they became inseparable for 32 and a half years. The couple opened SR Crouch and Associates in 2000, followed by Pine Meadow Counseling in 2007 and Pine Meadow Counseling IOP in 2015. They were a true team, always by each other's side.

Outside of work, Steve and Renee enjoyed traveling the world with their children and Steve's parents. As empty nesters, they discovered a newfound joy in attending music festivals and raves. True to his style, Steve loved fashion and was known for his collection of the latest trends, especially Pashminas, which he paired with suits and Doc Martens.

Steve's love for his children was unmatched. His family was his greatest motivation, driving him to keep fighting through everything, from cancer to Sarcoidosis, and even 21 kidney stones.

Their first child, Corbin, was born on February 8, 1998. Their second child, Carson, was born on March 22, 1999, but tragically passed away on June 10, 1999. Their third child, Claire, was miscarried on November 24, 1999. Their fourth child, Canon, was born on September 20, 2000, and doctors feared he too had Infantile Myofibromatosis. Finally, their youngest child, Ivy, was born on April 3, 2002, just one week after Steve's first chemotherapy session.

To all of Steve's patients who are grieving with us during this time, we extend our deepest sympathy and most heartfelt gratitude. Steve loved each and every one of you, and you gave him purpose, filling his heart with joy as he witnessed your personal growth and successes.

Steve's Celebration of Life will be held at Greenlawn Cemetery, located at 2739 Panama Lane, Bakersfield, CA 93313, on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.

www.bakersfield.com/obits