The bassist has been recovering since mid-May
Richard Sterban, who’s been an Oak Ridge Boys member for over 53 years, has announced a health update. The bassist has has been off the road convalescing since mid-May, sharing a health update with fans.
“In March of this year, I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. But I am under the care of the best cancer doctors in the country and, with the help of the Good Lord above, I believe I will be able to get through this,” Sterban says. “I want to thank everyone, especially the fans, for your concern, and I would appreciate your continued prayers. Most days I’m feeling very good, and I hope to be back out on the road in several months.”
Sterban, whose bass notes are featured prominently in the Oaks’ double platinum single, “Elvira,” last appeared with the group at the Academy of Country Music Awards in May. Aaron McCune and Tim Duncan have been filling in for him on tour.
The Oak Ridge Boys are scheduling shows into 2026.
Sterban began his singing career as a six-year-old soprano in Sunday school in his native Camden, New Jersey. Before joining the Oaks in 1972, Richard sang with J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet, which afforded him the opportunity of a lifetime—the chance to sing with Elvis, the King of Rock and Roll, singing with him every night on stage, recording with him, and appearing in one of his movies (Elvis on Tour).
Richard and his wife, Donna, have two daughters, Lauren and Tori. Tori and her husband, Michael, have one son, Michael Owen Fagan IV. Likewise, Lauren and her husband, Tyler, have one son, Alexander Thomas Estep. Richard also has three older sons, Rich (Chele), Doug, and Chris, five additional grandchildren, Mali (Zach), Nik, Tyler (Ryann), Madelyn, and Allie, and two great-grandchildren, Salem and Asher.
