Committal
William Anderson Loven (Dick), of Morganton, NC passed away at his home Friday, August 1, 2025. He was born on May 16, 1931 in Burke County to the late Robert Vance Loven and Ellie Dula Loven. Dick was a veteran of the United States Navy. He worked in the construction field for many years, operating heavy equipment and laying pipelines in North and South Carolina. He loved his work and spoke of this often. Dick was owner of Steel Creek Park and Family Campground. He also owned Jonas Ridge Snowtubing. Both businesses suited him as he loved to see families enjoy themselves. Through his business endeavors, thousands of people traveled to Burke County for camping, snowtubing or GNCC racing. Some have even moved to Burke County.
Dick had great vision and determination. He expected his employees and family to work hard and do their best, just as he did alongside them. He had a great love for family and was a selfless individual. Dick was always willing to give to others and help anyway he could. He loved animals and blue grass music. He enjoyed spending time with friends and discussing politics and the news of the day.
Dick is survived by his daughter, Sherry Loven Wakefield (Joey); sister Huldah Loven Story; sister-in-law, Nina Loven; grandchildren, Chelsea Wakefield, Marc Wakefield (Madison); great-grandson, Colton; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Brown Loven; son, Dennis Damon Loven; sisters, Lou Cornelia Key (Marcus), Leah Myers; brother, Sterling Loven.
The family gives special thanks to the caregivers who were in the home with him and made his life meaningful and comfortable.
A Celebration of Dick’s life will be held at 1pm on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at El Bethel Baptist Church in Morganton with Rev. Justin Cunningham officiating. The family will greet friends following the celebration in the El Bethel fellowship hall. A private family graveside service was held at Burke Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to Amorem Hospice or El Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for William Anderson Loven (Dick).
To the Family and specially Sherry, we have enjoyed your Dads vision of Steel Creek Campground for 25 years. Our children have grew up enjoying this vision and now our grandchildren are enjoying it. Sherry the apple does not fall far from the tree as I know you have enjoyed this vision and for the last few years have become the visionary for Steel Creel Campground. This place has touched many families and their children and has become a multi-generational experience. Our condolences to you and your family, if we can do anything don't hesitate to reach out. We appreciate you and your family for providing such a great place to experience and memories to share. Love and Prayers, David&Angie Shoun.
Dick Loven will Always be remembered for his kindness he showed toward others. We consider our lives to be very Blessed that we had the opportunity to know him. He gave both our sons a job at Steele Creek at a young age. He worked them hard but also cared a lot about them and they also cared for him. We will never forget such a good man. Rest in Peace until we get to see you again The Hensley's
To the Wakefield family, We are so very sorry for your loss. We are lifting your family up the our heavenly father for comfort.
Joey and Sherry, prayers for you and family. You made his last years so comfortable. Love to all of you
We all loved and will miss you uncle Dick.
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN
Dick was a good man, and a good friend. Both my daughters grew up camping and swiming at Steel Creek in the summer , and Dick gave my oldesr daughter her first summer job there. I will miss your stories, and our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Always in my heart,Dick was like a father to me,l am his sisterinlaw,he will be missed much in this family God Speed Uncle Dick,,,l love you much