Apr 4, 1942 - Jul 7, 2024April 4, 1942 - July 7, 2024
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El Paso, TX
Loveland, CO
Steve loved flying his Bellanca Viking plane and then later radio-controlled airplane flying, photography, eating good food, grilling meat, reading, riding tractors on the ranch, remodeling old Mustangs and most of all he loved his work as a board certified Veterinary Neurologist and Neurosurgeon.
Steak and apple pie
His work as a veterinary neurologist afforded him opportunities to care for exotic animals such as a leopard and a rhinoceros, along with beautiful championship Quarter horse competitors. He was extremely involved in academia as a professor, private practice and specialty consultant for both small and large animals, along with his active involvement on a professional level, serving as the president of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and served as a delegate for the American Veterinary Medical Association. He also published articles in veterinary medical journals and served as an editor. Steve was a doer, always working. Work was not something to take a vacation from. It was his identity and he was proud to serve his community in this way. He loved his family fiercely and did all that he could to support his kids in their endeavors. If anyone would listen to him, he would share about his kids and grandchildren.
flying his airplane, eating good food and spending time with family.
being with his beloved wife Kay, wherever life would take them.
anything but sitcoms. He just couldn't keep up with the humor in them.
football. He was the All-State center.
Steven Burton Colter
April 4, 1942 - July 7, 2024
Steven Burton Colter, affectionately known as "Sky King," passed away on July 7, 2024, at the age of 82. Born on April 4, 1942, in El Paso, TX, Steven lived the majority of his life in Loveland, CO. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Steven's life was filled with passion and adventure. He had a love for flying, starting with his beloved Bellanca Viking plane and later transitioning to radio-controlled airplanes. Photography, reading, and remodeling old Mustangs were also among his favorite hobbies. However, it was his work as a board-certified Veterinary Neurologist and Neurosurgeon that truly defined him. Steven dedicated his career to healing animals suffering from paralysis and neurological disorders, making a significant impact in the field of veterinary medicine. His expertise extended to exotic animals, including a leopard and a rhinoceros, as well as championship Quarter horse competitors.
Beyond his professional achievements, Steven was actively involved in academia, serving as a professor and private practice and specialty consultant for both small and large animals. He was a respected figure in the veterinary community, having held the position of President of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and serving as a delegate for the American Veterinary Medical Association. Steven's passion for his work was unwavering, and he took great pride in serving his community.
Family was paramount to Steven, and he adored spending time with his wife, Kay Marie Keese Colter, with whom he would have celebrated 60 years of marriage on August 23rd, 2024. Steven's children, Dr. Robert Steven Colter and Debra Suzanne Colter Radke, were his pride and joy. He supported their endeavors and spoke of them and his grandchildren with immense love and pride.
Steven's favorite pastimes included flying his airplane, savoring good food, and cherishing moments with family. He found solace in being with his beloved wife Kay, no matter where life took them. Football was his favorite sport, and he had once been the All-State center. Television shows of all genres intrigued him, except for sitcoms, as he often found their humor hard to keep up with.
Known for his tenacity, sensitivity, steadfastness, and drive, Steven made a lasting impact on the lives of others. Through his pioneering work in veterinary neurology, he brought healing and hope to countless animals and served as a mentor to many aspiring veterinarians. Steven's contributions to the veterinary community extended beyond his practice, as he held leadership roles in professional associations and published articles in veterinary medical journals.
Steven Burton Colter leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, sisters Brenda and Marilyn Colter, and extended family. His favorite quotes, such as "It can't be done" and "Can't never could do nothing," will continue to inspire those who knew him. Steven's impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Steven's memory to be made to the Colorado Veterinary Medical Foundation, a cause that was close to his heart.
Rest in peace, Steven. Your spirit will live on through the lives you touched and the love you shared.
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El Paso, TX
Loveland, CO