Ronald Eugene Steerman

Ronald Eugene Steerman was born on March 23, 1933, at home in Ransom, Kansas. He was the third of five sons born to Lloyd and Ola Steerman. Ron grew up in Kansas and attended high school in Brownell, where he graduated in 1951.

After high school, Ron moved to Denver, Colorado, where he began his working life at Montgomery Ward. In January of 1954, he answered the call to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army. He completed basic training at Fort Ord, California, as part of Unit 5456, and was later stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

During his military service, Ron briefly joined the Paratroopers, enticed by the promise of a week's vacation. After spending a month as a paratrooper-and learning that the promised leave would not be granted-he volunteered to serve as an engineer. For two years, Ron worked as an Army engineer, clearing land and trees to create safe landing areas for parachutists and completing various support tasks. He honorably completed his service in January of 1956.

While serving in the Army, Ron married the love of his life, LaNelva Jean Madison, on September 22, 1955, in Raton, New Mexico. Together they built a family, welcoming their first son, Daniel Wayne, in 1957, followed by Marvin Eugene in 1959, and Steven Leon in 1961.

Throughout his working years, Ron was primarily employed as a truck driver for various companies. In 1972, the family moved from Denver to Fort Lupton, Colorado, where Ron built the family home on 10 acres of land. This home remained his cherished residence for the rest of his life. Ron deeply enjoyed time spent with his family and took particular joy in playing with his grandchildren.

Music was one of Ron's greatest passions. A self-taught musician, he played numerous instruments including the guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. Ron had a remarkable ability to pick up nearly any instrument and make music with it. He even recorded a CD with his brother Lee, a meaningful accomplishment and source of pride.

After the passing of his beloved wife LaNelva in 1995, Ron spent his winters in Why, Arizona. There, he found companionship and joy in playing music and games with friends, an experience that became an important and fulfilling chapter of his later years.

Ronald Eugene Steerman is survived by his sons Daniel Wayne (Melanie) and Steven Leon (Lori); his grandchildren Jason, Brian, Michelle, and Brittney (children of Daniel); Christopher and Stephanie (children of Marvin); and Stacey and Adam (children of Steven); along with numerous great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his brother, Darrel Leon Steerman.

Ron was preceded in death by his wife, LaNelva Jean Steerman; his son, Marvin Eugene Steerman; his grandson, Gregory Eugene Steerman; his brothers Don, Leland, and Ray Steerman; and his parents, Lloyd and Ola Steerman.

Ron's legacy lives on through his family, the music he loved to play, and the many lives he touched along the way.