Dr. Steven Burton Colter

Dr. Steven Burton Colter, DVM, passed away on July 7, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on April 4, 1942, in El Paso, TX, Steven spent the majority of his life in Fort Collins, CO. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Steve had many passions including flying, photography, reading, and remodeling old Mustangs. However, it was his work as a veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon where his skill and dedication were most clearly demonstrated. Steve devoted his career to healing animals suffering from paralysis and other neurological disorders, leaving a lasting imprint in the field of veterinary medicine specialty practice. His expertise encompassed caring for exotic animals, such as a leopard and a rhinoceros, in addition to Quarter Horse show competitors. He was a highly respected member of the profession, being elected President of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association and serving as a diplomate for the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Neurology).
Family was paramount to Steven, and he adored spending time with his lovely wife, Kay Keese Colter, with whom he would have celebrated 60 years of marriage on August 23rd, 2024. Steve's children, Dr. Robert S. Colter married to Jeni Chaney Colter and Debra S. Colter Radke married to Mark Loren Radke, were his pride and joy. His 8 grandchildren -Jackson, Kayli, Megan, Jocelyn, Colter, Hudson, Jasmin and Daesha - each held a cherished place in his heart. He supported them in their endeavors and spoke of them with immense love and pride.
Steve leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his sisters Brenda and Marilyn, and his extended family. His favorite quotes, such as "Enjoy the journey" and "Can't never could do nothing," will continue to ring in the ears of those who knew him, continuing to inspire them. Steve's impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, July 27th starting at 1PM at First Presbyterian Church in Fort Collins, CO. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Steven's memory to be made to the Department of Neurology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University, a cause that was close to his heart.
Memorial gifts can be made to the Neurology Stand Fund, fund number 82265, in a few different ways:
1) Mail: Make checks payable to and mail to CSU Foundation, P.O. Box 1870, Fort Collins, CO 80522. Be sure to mention In Memory of Dr. Colter on the memo line or accompanying note.
2) Phone: Call the CSU Foundation at (970) 491-7135
3) Online: Visit https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/45236/donations/new?designation=neurologyresearchstand&. After payment has been made on the online giving form, you will be directed to a screen where a memorial tribute can be made. Do this by making your selection in the "Tribute Type" field, and then typing your tribute's name, "In Memory of Dr. Colter" in the "Tribute Name" field.
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