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Stephen Kerr Obituary
Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Sept. 19, at the Mitchell Berean Church. Cremation services were performed in Colo.
Memorial contributions may be made in Dr. Kerr's name to the Panhandle Humane Society in Scottsbluff or to the Waggin Tails Animal Shelter in Torrington.
Dr. Kerr was born on Feb. 28, 1944 in Ind. In 1971, he received a Bachelors of Science in Wildlife Management from Colorado State University and was accepted into the University's College of Veterinary Medicine the following year. In 1976, Dr. Kerr was granted his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and dedicated the rest of his life to healing and protecting animals. Over the past 30+ years in private practice, Dr. Kerr left a legacy, which will live on forever in the hearts and souls of the patients and their owners whom he touched.
Dr. Kerr was proudest of his work with wildlife and especially Raptors. He was named President of the Wyoming Veterinary Medical Association, an Honor Senior of the Wildlife Society, the Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year – Leo Bustad Award, the Nebraska Wildlife Conservationist of the Year – Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, The Western Nebraska Wildlife Conservationist of the Year – Audubon Society and three time Veterinarian on the Alaskan Iditarod Trail Sled Dog race.
Survivors include; his wife Joanne, siblings, Rick (Gayle) Kerr, Kevin (Lori) Kerr, Barbara Kerr, children, Todd (Lisa) Kerr, Shane Kerr, Suzanna (Scott) Dever, Scott (Heather) Neu, and grandchildren, Kate, Bryce, Derek, Charlie, Jake, and Andrew.
Dr. Kerr was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Rose Kerr of Pierceton, Ind.
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Kerr
Jill Giese
October 1, 2008
It took me a few days to be able to write here after hearing of Dr. Kerr's passing. I found out 2 weeks after it happened, by going into the Bear Creek office to get a refill prescription for my dog. It hit really hard when I heard it and he's been on my mind constantly for these past few days. Dr. Kerr treated both my dogs, and he treated them like his own. When I got my most recent dog (a rescue), he greeted him by saying, "Hi Pretty Boy!" and then he leaned down to let my dog kiss his face, which he let him do every time thereafter also. We (my rescue dog and I) visited Dr. Kerr at Bear Creek very regularly since June '07 til the present & we got to know him fairly well, so we feel like we lost a really dear friend. Dr. Kerr made you feel special and unique and he did that with each and every patient and owner that walked through his door. He was truly gifted with animals, as well as with people. I was amazed that he took time to "personally" call to see how the dogs were doing after they'd been in to see him. We've had several vets over the past 20 some years and Dr. Kerr 'easily' topped them all. It was a true pleasure to have known him and to have animals that were treasured and treated by him. This is just such a huge loss and words are hard to find. As has been said before, Dr. Kerr was truly, One Of A Kind!!!
Angie Babcock
September 30, 2008
I learned of Dr. Kerr's death the Friday after it happened. It hit me so hard, I had to leave work and go home. Dr. Kerr was an extraordinary man and one of a kind. Two years ago I lost my husband, and my little beagle Spud was my mainstay. He was 15 years old and I knew it was only a matter of time. That summer, Dr. Kerr helped me through the most difficult decision of my life--to let my little dog go. He called me daily, he gave me a book to read, he had a woman from CSU call me to talk to me about it, because he knew how much pain I was going through. I finally did what was best for my dog, and Dr. Kerr was there to get me through it. He cannot be replaced. . .I can only imagine how difficult it is for his family to lose such a caring and wonderful man. He was the best vet I ever knew, and I won't forget him. How sad I am, and how said I am for my new little beagle whose face Dr. Kerr cradled in his hands and said, "Isn't he the sweetest little thing.?"
No, there's never going to be another like him.
Ron Rhoades
September 29, 2008
I am most saddened to learn of Steve's untimely passing. Steve and I were Pierceton neighbors through high school - we lived about a mile apart. Following high school graduation, Steve and I were at Purdue as freshmen. As kids, we were fellow school bus riders until we aquired cars and were finally allowed to drive to school. Over the years there were many winter board games at our respective homes as well as pranks, winter ice hockey games on Robinson Lake and the Rhoades pond. We trapped muskrat in the lowland ditches that traversed our farms and hoped for the prized mink. We had many "crow hunting" expeditions in all seasons of the year. Farm rodents were challenged when we were around. We always shared our hunting experiences...some more noble than others. Ducks and geese were notable challenges. We had guns and fishing equipment to share and talk about. On the Pierceton Cub's varsity basketball court Steve was a starter and I was the student manager. His shot chart data was pretty good...it was those techical fouls that really got Coach Niles going. It was a wonderful youth with Steve.
Jennifer Malmberg
September 22, 2008
The world is no doubt a better place because of Steve Kerr. I feel very fortunate to have known him and to have witnessed his compassion for animals and people alike. He was truly an exceptional veterinarian and a wonderful person, and his dedication and dignity will continue to inspire me as I pursue my career in wildlife medicine. My condolences go out to his family.
Nancy Kowalski
September 21, 2008
Steve was a good man. Kind to everyone and always had adventure, laughter and hope in his soul. Heaven will now be a better place because he is there, and to those left behind, fond memories of a man who was one of a kind. What a great loss. My heart is sad.
Steve & Kellie Benzel (Shevock)
September 20, 2008
Todd & Shane,
We are so very sorry to hear about your loss. Steve was a gentle giant of a man who loved animals and life to the fullest. We wish there were more people in this world who were like him.
I have so many wonderful memories of Steve. He allowed me to be a part of his life for awhile and I am very thankful for the honor or calling him my friend.
He will be sadly missed by everybody he ever knew and all the animals he took care of.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless you all.
Anna Goodwill
September 19, 2008
Dr. Kerr wasn't only one of the nicest menI have ever meet, I considered him a good friend, and The Best Vet In The World. He will be greatly missed by me and others. Anna from Yodeling Acers Kennel
Rich and Sue V
September 19, 2008
What A WONDERFUL Man!! He will be very sadly missed by alot of people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.
michael kinsey
September 19, 2008
Todd, and Shane,
I was in Colorado hunting with your dad when this tragedy happened. I am your dad's cousin, Mike, and he was always just my older cousin "Steve". He was one of my mentors while growing up. I will always remember his compassion for animals. Even when we were kids he would always pick up the sick stray and take care of it. You two guys are in my heart as you go through this tough time. Know that you are not alone. Cousin Mike
Amy Tschetter
September 19, 2008
Kerr Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Dr. Kerr taught me alot and helped me through me schooling as a vet tech. He also saved one of my animals. He was a very caring and loving guy who will be missed dearly.
Trish Eisenbarth
September 19, 2008
Joanne and family,
I am so sorry for you loss. Dr Kerr has touched so many lives in Goshen County. He will truly be missed. I remember always going in to see Dr Kerr with my cat (Smokey). He was such a compassionate person and always had time for any questions you might have as well as always taking his time during an examination and not rushing you out the door. He had a very big heart and a big smile to match. You never felt like he had better things to do when you would come to his office. I never saw him that he didn't have a big smile on his face. When my brother had to have his dog put to sleep, he was very caring and understanding and let us have the time we needed to say goodbye. I will never forget Dr Kerr because he was the best vet I have ever had the honor of knowing. Dr Kerr was truly one of a kind.
Ron & Deb Smith
September 19, 2008
Our prayers & love go to you all. It's hard to loose a loved one no matter how they go. We would like to let you know Steve will missed by many, not only people but his animal friends as well. He had a special compassion for his patients and their owners. We went to Midtown when he was there and greatly missed him when he went to Colorado to teach others at the vet school there. When we found out he was in Torrington there was no question where we were going with our babies. We loved how compasionate he was with them.
When our daughter was in high school she wanted to be a vet and as soft as she was in seeing critters injured or die we asked Steve if she could volunteer 1 day a week and of course he said yes. She still remembers that and it's been 20 yrs. She didn't become a vet because she couldn't handle seeing the critters in pain.
Our son after he got out of the military was going to go to vet school and had him talk to Steve. Steve gave him the pros and cons. He decided because of the length of time it would take he'd become a chemist.
Our family owes your family a lot for sharing your husband, father, grandfather and brother with us. We will greatly miss our vet we came to love.
With our deepest sympathy,
Ron & Deb Smith
Melbeta, NE
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Sam Klassert
September 19, 2008
Kerr Family
Marci & I met Steve and his family when he first went to work at the Gering Clinic about thirty years ago. We hit if off right away and we become very close friends. He was with us thru most all of our "rough" times of life and we like wise tried to make sure that we was with him thru his "rough times". Steve we think was the greatest Vet ever put on the face of this earth. His love and concern for animals was a God given gift. He was "Uncle" Steve to our granddaughter Sunshine who was sure that "Uncle" Steve could do no wrong. Marci and I have been remembering some of the funny things that have happened thru the years along with some of the tough times in his life as well as ours when we laughed and cried but what we really remember it that Steve was always there when we needed him. Todd and Shane your dad loved you guys and your families very much and was so proud of you. We are sorry for your lost but we feel that he is with the Lord taking care of his animals and we will see him again. Joanne, thank you for sharing Steve to take care of our animals, taking calls at nights and on weekends and just as sure as the world turns when you had something planned someone would call with a sick animal. His passing is a great lost for you Joanne, but be assured that Steve loved you very much and our prayers are with you in this tough time. He may be gone but not forgotten.
Vicki & Randy Burbach
September 19, 2008
Todd, Lisa and Kate:
Dr. Kerr was a very special man. He was always compassionate to the animals that he cared for. We will never forget his awesome care of our beloved Belgian horse, Fanny, when she was stricken with distemper. After housing Fanny and showing great care and compassion to her at his clinic in Torrington for several days, he drove to our home near Gering on Labor Day and released the terrible infection in Fanny's head and neck. Dr. Kerr never said one derogatory word about being called out on a holiday. He was a true friend to all animals. His legacy will live in our hearts and minds forever. God bless you as you move forward in the days to come. May your special memories of your Dad and Grandpa bring you smiles and comfort.
The Walford Family
September 18, 2008
Joanne and family,
We were very sad to hear about Dr. Kerr's passing. He was a wonderful man, always going above and beyond in the care not only of our pets, but also helping us deal with difficult emotional times. We were very fortunate to have had him in our lives and in the lives of our pets.
We will miss you, Dr. Kerr.
Bill and Pat Smith
September 18, 2008
Joanne and family,
We were saddened to hear about Steve's passing. He had been our Vet for many years. He cried with us when he gave us sad news on our Yogi and this endeared him to us forever. Steve always seemed glad to see us and our newest pet when we came back to town. You had to love his BIG smile. We will miss him, but he will always have a special place in our hearts. What a special man. God bless you all.
Laurie Phinney
September 18, 2008
Joanne and Family,
I was very sad to hear about the loss of Dr. Kerr. Although I only worked with him a short time for an internship, he taught me a lot and let me do many things. He was so kind and generous to everyone. He will truely be missed by all.
Misty Skavlem
September 18, 2008
Joanne and family,
My heart aches for you all. I met Dr. Kerr 9 years ago while attending school at EWC. He was a mentor and friend. I will never forget his kind words, his wisdom and his great big smile!
Wendy Applegarth
September 18, 2008
Dear JoAnne and Family,
My heart is saddened to hear of Dr. Kerr's passing. Words can not express what a loss this will be to everyone who knew him and to our communities. He has truly left a legacy-dedicating his life to helping animals and their owners. I know he had helped me more times than I can count. He was the most compassionate and caring person I have ever known. I hope somehow you find comfort in knowing how many lives he has touched. We are all blessed to have known such a wonderful man. My deepest sympathy.
Dave Hayen
September 18, 2008
Joanne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Scott and Suzanna.
Linda and Martha Owen
September 18, 2008
Dear Joanne
Words can not really express the loss that you are going through at this time.... I have meet many people, BUT Dr. Kerr was one of a Kind-- I don't thihk that a person could honestly dislike him. There are a few people on this earth that when they were born, God broke the mold. You were blessed to have him in your life and in your heart. And even though it is hard right now, your memories will be so great. When I first heard the news, I didn't want to believe it, He was mine and my Pugs vet- and when I lost my baby (my pet Pug) Steve just stayed on the phone for awhile. He knew my loss and he shared it with me in his own way...I will miss him, and so will many many more. God bless you at this time--- He may be gone but he will never be forgotten. He will live on in your heart, and your families heart, and the hearts of many people from here and places far away, where Steve touched many lives in a positive and loving way~~Linda and my kountrypugs
Terry & Barb Jones
September 18, 2008
Joann & Family,
We were saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of Steve. He was a very passionate person about the animals he took care of and a good friend to everyone. Our sympathy goes out to you and your family.
E. Deane Lind
September 18, 2008
Deepest sympathy to the Kerr family. Steve was a wonderful man and a great vet ... he will be sorely missed!
Mike and Deb Callahan
September 18, 2008
A good man......nothing better can be said of any man.
Barb Smyth
September 18, 2008
Joanne & Family
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. He was a very compassionate man and God has called him to be a very special Angel.
Thank you for sharing Steve with all of us and letting us get to know what a special person he was.
May God be with you to spread his blanket of love, peace, and comfort over you at this time and always.
Connie and Stan Mathson
September 18, 2008
IT'S SO HARD TO FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO EXPRESS HOW SORRY WE ARE FOR YOUR LOSS. HEAVEN WILL HAVE ONE SUPER ANGEL . STEVE WAS SO GOOD TO US AND "BEAR" . OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. GOD BLESS YOU.
Denny & Donna Richards
September 18, 2008
Joann & family,
Our sincere sympathies to you.
We were shocked to learn of Steve's passing. He was such a kind, generous & compassionate friend to us and gave such extra special care to our Winchester. We've been touched by his life. May the Lord bring you comfort in your grief as you reflect on memories.
Marilyn Miller
September 18, 2008
Dear Kerr Family,
Dr. Kerr was more than a great vet. He was friend you could talk to and he always took the time to make sure that you were doing ok in times of distess.
His patience and caring is what struck me first when I brought Midnight and Bandit first in and all the work and research he did when Bandit and his seizures would cause issues. Once Mada and Ronan joined the family he welcomed them as well and they loved coming to see him.
We will miss him and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Teresa Bentley (Greif)
September 18, 2008
Joanne, Suzanna, Scott & Family--
I was saddened to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Suzanne Jensen
September 17, 2008
Joanne & Family,
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
Dr. Kerr always had a kind word, a big smile, and he was the best vet that I have ever met. Whenever I needed a vet, while visiting the area, he'd always make time to see my dog. He was a phenomenal human being!
Karen (Booth) Lojka
September 17, 2008
Dear Shane: I am terribly saddened by the loss of your dad. He was a great guy, and a wonderful vet. This valley will miss him tremendously. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jessica (Oaks) Gladson
September 17, 2008
Joanne,
I was very saddened to hear of the death of such a smart and wonderful man who touched many hearts in Goshen County. He was a great role model for me as a young child when it came to care taking of my animals and often kept his door open for questions I had. I feel the county morns with you and your family. Please know that our thoughts and prayers go out to you and yours in your time of need.
Kevin / Lori Hill
September 17, 2008
Joanne and Family
We are so very sorry for your loss of Dr. Kerr. He was an extroadinary man and vet. His compassion for all the animals was very touching. He will missed by all who new him. He touched so may lives. He will live on forever in all our hearts. The community has lost a wonderful man.
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Misty Jones
September 17, 2008
Dr. Kerr was the best vet in the whole area, so when I moved to Cheyenne I would make the drive back to Torrington to bring my dogs to him. He is going to be greatly missed not only by me, but Fenway and Bella also. There is no one or vet like him. Our deepest sympathy are with you, his family.
Michelle Prescott (Harrower)
September 17, 2008
Steve was a wonderful, compassionate friend and vet and one of the kindest people I have known. I will miss my conversations with him, which were always so positive and full of humor. I'll bet there were many happy animal faces waiting for him at "The Bridge". How lucky they are to have him forever. My most sincere condolences to his entire family.
Tami Niederhaus (Lyons)
September 17, 2008
Joann, Suzanna & Scott:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dorothy Hicks
September 17, 2008
The Family of Dr. Kerr,
I thank you as a family for all the time you shared Dr. Kerr with us so he could fulfill his destiny in treating animals of all kinds. Your loss is beyond words.
Dr. Kerr was a genius in his field and his love and devotion for all animals was phenomenal and came from deep within his soul. He treated the whole animal which included time to console, educate, and counsel the owners. Dr. Kerr loved his work and it showed. Each of us was blessed to have known Dr. Kerr. We will miss him so very much, but he will never be forgotten.
Summer Young
September 17, 2008
Joanne,
My deepest sympathies are with you and the family. Steve was a great man and a wonderful vet. He was our family vet for a long time and will be greatly missed. I'll never forget when we'd bring my parents little dog in to get his toenails clipped and Steve would give us the look of "Why me, why now?"
He will be dearly missed.
Jenie Smith M.D.
September 17, 2008
My father was a large animal vet, eventually working for the USDA. He was very VERY particular, and not enthused about other vets in the area--except for Steve. After my father's death, our family acquired a kitten, and we became patients in Steve's practice. His kind, gentle manner mixed with those twinkling eyes, were always healing to the humans. After I left home, my mom was alone, and Steve was always, unfailingly, kind to her. Peace to his family; I hope you all gain comfort as you read this myriad of memories about a man who touched so many.
Ronald McGurn
September 17, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to all the Kerr family. May the love he shared with you help you through this sad time. Sincerely, Dorrie and Ron McGurn (Jen Kinzel McGurn's in-laws)
Bitsie Vath
September 17, 2008
Joanne and family,
Steve was not only the greatest boss and veterinarian, but also one of the greatest human beings I have been blessed to know. I would run into him at a store somewhere and he'd give me a big heartwarming hug and tease my kids. He always had a smile on his face. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Michelle Brown (Hill)
September 17, 2008
Sorry about your loss. He was a very good man and vet.
Tina Puckett
September 17, 2008
Dr. Kerr was truly and extraordinary man. Our family is very sad to have learned of his death. Steve left his mark on all of us. He was always kind and concerned about all our pets, never hesitating to say “If it’s not better, call me at home tonight” (That made him a great DR.) Steve always had time for what ever problem we brought to him. (and there were many) but after seeing to our Pets injuries or sicknesses he would spend another 20 minutes asking how we were and inquiring about our health. Steve was so devoted to his animal friends and their owners. (That made him a Great Man) Thank you for everything you did for our family Dr. Kerr. We will miss you. Evan & Tina Puckett, Lindsey & Layney DeBolt.
The John Johnson Family
September 17, 2008
Todd & Family,
Our deepest condolences to you and your family in the passing of Doc. When I first got my hunting dog, there was no question as to who her Vet would be. His heart was larger than life and he will be missed by many, forgotten by few. May you find comfort in God and know he is Heaven's Vet now. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Paula & Alexis Brening
September 17, 2008
The Dr. Kerr family:
Please accept our deepest sympathy on your recent and unexpected loss. Dr. Kerr is known in the Panhandle for being a very kind & giving person. I know he has helped our family out with our pets when he didn't really need to. I talk to other people who also used him as their vet & there are always only kind words spoken.
We, as people, will miss him very much as I am sure will all of his special patients.
With our love & prayers for you all,
Sharon Pryor
September 17, 2008
Dr. Kerr was the best veterinarian my pets have ever had in any place I have ever lived. He was so caring and kind. He had a great sense of humor. I am beyond sad. To his family , you are in my thoughts and prayers. He was truly one of a kind.
Sharon and Bob (the cat)
Curt Door
September 17, 2008
Joanne and family,
Our family has been truly blessed to have known Steve, his caring and loving nature for our family and our dogs. He will be deeply missed. Know that our prayers are with you all, that our great Sovereign God will comfort you in your loss.
Curt, Candy, Erin and Anneka Door
Todd Cornish
September 17, 2008
Steve was a fine man and compassionate professional, devoted both to his domestic animal patients and to wildlife in Nebraska, Wyoming, and beyond. I will miss him as a friend and colleague and my condolences to his family.
Reuben & Sonia Reisig
September 17, 2008
Doc Kerr was a long-time family friend and vet. Reuben loved to share hunting stories with him.
Barb Kerr Kintzel
September 17, 2008
My brother lived Larger than Life and leaves a larger than life legacy. He left us as he lived... with people he loved and out amongst the wildlife he loved so dearly. I'd like to remember him yelling "Yahoo" as he left us.
Vicki Smith
September 17, 2008
You will be sorely missed by your veterinary friends in the WVMA. Thanks for all your service and your great heart added to all the associations' projects in which you were involved. I so enjoyed working with you, Steve, during your Presidency of the WVMA.
George and Lisa Hernandez
September 17, 2008
Joann and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Dr Kerr was a special person and Vet .. and he will be so very missed. I had the pleasure of knowing him inside the Vet realm as well as outside and he was a friend.
How sudden our lives can change.. yet we are thankful for the experience of knowing him and having him in our lives.
Heaven will love him and welcome him as their newest Angel. I have no doubt he will do great things there.
Marie Bartel
September 17, 2008
I am very sorry for your loss! Dr Kerr was the most compasionate man I have ever know. He will be truely missed by everyone who knew him.
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