Roswitha M. Stonehocker

Roswitha Maria Stonehocker

April 7, 1936 – January 31, 2026

Roswitha "Rose" Maria Stonehocker, a woman of profound resilience, faith, and devotion to the land, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026. Born on April 7, 1936, in the farming village of Rathmannsdorf, Germany, Rose’s early life was defined by both the deep roots of her heritage and the harrowing trials of war.

A Legacy of Resilience......Rose was the daughter of Alfons and Klara Wottge, raised on an ancestral farm that had been in the Wottge family for over 200 years. Her childhood was rooted in the rhythm of the seasons until World War II brought immense hardship, eventually resulting in her family being expelled from their village with only what they could carry.

In 1952, Rose immigrated to the United States with her parents and siblings, seeking a "second start". She found a new home in Colorado and, in 1958, married the love of her life, Walter "Walt" Stonehocker. Together, they built a life grounded in faith and hard work. In 1971, they took a monumental risk, founding an enterprise in their bedroom office that grew into Western Gas Resources, a company that eventually employed nearly 900 people. Despite this success, Rose remained a "farmer’s daughter" at heart, finding her greatest joy on their Brighton farm.

Faith and Family......A founding member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Rose’s life was guided by an unwavering faith. She was a pillar of strength, gracefully balancing the demands of a growing business with the joys of raising seven children.

Rose was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter; her daughter, Heidi Stonehocker; her parents, Alfons and Klara Wottge; and her sisters, Renate Burket and Ursula Darby.

She is survived by her brothers, Ben Wottge and Konrad Wottge. Her legacy continues through her children: Dr. William (Terri) Stonehocker, Renee (Gary) Schwark, Michael (Robin) Stonehocker, Lori (Mark) Quick, Linda (William) Marty, and Mark (Tracy) Stonehocker. She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, with two more precious lives soon to join the family she so dearly loved. They will forever remember her as a woman of extraordinary courage and gentle kindness.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.