David Stephens

David Walter “Dave” Stephens passed away March 12, 2021 at the age of 73. He fought a long and courageous battle with cancer, and despite this he stayed active on his beloved ranch. He was born in Seminole, Oklahoma to David L. and Stella Stephens on March 26, 1947.

Dave leaves a legacy for many to remember. He is survived by his special lady, Judi Burgett; daughters, Joyce (Mica) Simpleman, JoAnne (Grant) Ary; grandchildren, Cory, Stephen and Gracie Simpleman, Ashley (Nathan), Mitchell, Alexa, and Amanda Ary and great-grand-daughter Nora Kohl. May his memory be eternal.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, David; mother, Stella; infant daughter, Brenda; sister, Hazel Long and brother, Lee Findley.

Dave graduated from Yale High School in 1965 and then attended Oklahoma State University. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a Communication Specialist in the 5th Special Forces Group in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He moved his family to Cañon City in 1977 and it has been his home since.

Dave loved ranching and raising Limousin cattle in a cow/calf operation. He was a long-term member of the Fremont County Cattlemen's Association and the Colorado Cattlemen's Association. He valued hard work and devoted endless hours with his family on his ranch. He loved trains, elk hunting, cowboy poetry, country dancing, socializing with friends, and especially his family.

Funeral service, 9:00 a.m. Thursday, March 18, Wilson Funeral Home, 1449 S. 9th St. in Cañon City, Pastor Brian Sanford officiating.  Reception to follow, V.F.W. Post 4061, 215 N. Cottonwood Ave., Cañon City.

Graveside service followed by interment, 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 20, Fairfax Cemetery, Fairfax, Oklahoma. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dave's honor to the Fremont County Cattlemen's Association Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2134, Cañon City, CO 81215.