Amber Stumbaugh

Amber Nicole Stumbaugh Left this world suddenly Tuesday, August 31, 2010, in Ames, Iowa. On that day, the world lost an amazing and inspiring person. Amber was born on October 18, 1975. She grew up in San Carlos, California, where her parents, Nick and Bobbie Stumbaugh, and her brother, Kurt, still live. She is survived by her partner of 13 years, her soul mate, Jill Sherwood, and her beloved pets, Floyd, Kelty, Margaret and Herbert, all of Ames, Iowa. She is also survived by many grieving family members in Sequim, Washington, Seattle, Washington, and Austin, Texas. Amber had a lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian and she was pursuing that dream with vigor. After graduating from Sequoia High School, she went on to receive a bachelor's degree in Animal Science at the University of California Davis and a master's degree in Genetics at Iowa State University. After returning briefly to California, Amber returned to Iowa to follow her heart. She was in her fourth year of Veterinary School at Iowa State University, and well on her way to becoming a remarkable veterinarian. Her love for animals and compassion for people was a gift that she was sharing with the world. She inspired and encouraged many people in the pursuit of her dream. She loved life and family, and was always there for anyone. She always had a smile and never took life too seriously. She loved being behind the lens of the camera and took many stunning photos. She and Jill found great joy in simple pleasures such as walking their dogs or sitting with their cats. One of her favorite things in life was being on her bicycle, either spending the week riding with friends and family or simply heading out for a quick ride. She had completed triathlons, and many weeklong bike rides, including RAGBRAI in Iowa and the AIDS/Lifecycle ride in California. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and the many people whose lives she touched throughout her too short time on this Earth. Her spirit will continue to live on in all those who loved her, as she would have liked. A Celebration of the Life of Amber Stumbaugh will be held Saturday, September 11, at 10:00, at Carrington Hall, Sequoia High School, Redwood City, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions be made in Amber's name to: ISU Vet Med Endowment Fund Scholarships in memory of Amber Nicole Stumbaugh College of Veterinary Medicine 1600 S. 16th Street Ames, IA 50011-1250