Stephen Pehler

1984 - 2023

Pehler, Stephen
05/27/1984 - 10/09/2023

Stephen, born in Port Arthur, Texas, was a bright and gregarious child. His many passions in life included musical percussion, marathon and Iron Man Triathlon running. His primary passion, helping others, led him to become an orthopedic spine surgeon.
He attended medical school and residency at The University of Alabama at Birmingham and completed his fellowship in orthopedic spine surgery at The University of Utah.
Stephen moved to Colorado in 2016. His success as a spine surgeon in private practice was immediate. He worked with unparalleled intensity and became a partner after one year, an unprecedented achievement. He was respected by his peers and adored by his patients. In over seven years of practice, Stephen helped innumerable patients live fuller lives.

Stephen's commitment to those he cared for was singular. To patients in particular need, he provided his cell phone number. His evenings, weekends, and vacations were punctuated with patient calls, physician calls, and urgent surgeries. Stephen never complained about what he saw as his duty to his patients.

Stephen was generous to his partners and friends with all his assets: his time, his knowledge, his skill, and the elk he so assiduously pursued. His annual elk delivery circuit around Denver was a delight to many.

The only thing Stephen loved more than helping others was his son, Jack. He was the true joy of Stephen's life.
Stephen's achievements are those of a full life, not in years, but in breadth and depth. His self-effacing character endeared him to those who knew him. His generous spirit will not be forgotten.
Stephen's legacy will live on through his son, Jack; his parents, Frederick and Rebecca; his sister, Katie; his brother-in-law and close friend, Anthony; and his aunts, uncle, cousins, and close friends. The medical professionals edified through their association with Stephen will forever carry with them the lessons from his life and practice. Through them, his exacting care of patients will continue.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes' Foundation or The Greater Birmingham Humane Society in honor of Stephen.