Leo "Bud" Dedrick Stoeber Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on April 30, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on April 11, 1931, in Monte Vista, Colo., Bud lived a vibrant life filled with love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for family and the beauty of nature.
Bud was a devoted husband to Nancy Lee Rice, whom he met in his mother's kitchen, and married on Sept. 26, 1964, in Alameda, Calif. Together they raised three children, spent time with their large extended family, traveled and created a lifetime of cherished memories, particularly enjoying their time spent in California and Mexico.
Bud's background in farming, and passion for gardening were evident as he nurtured his beloved daffodils and tulips, reveling in their bloom just weeks before his passing. He had a profound love for bluegrass music and learned to play the mandolin, bringing joy to those around him.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Bud served during the Korean War and carried the values of discipline and dedication throughout his life.
He was known for his humor, mischief, and stubbornness in his later years, and he upheld high expectations for himself and those he loved. Family meant everything to Bud, and he cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, Owen and Carolyn, who brought him immense joy.
Bud was also a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista, where he actively participated in the community alongside Nancy as members of the 50 Plus Club, hosting friends for Pinochle games, and sharing laughter with those around him.
His hobbies included working jigsaw puzzles, playing Solitaire on his tablet, and immersing himself in a good book about the old West or Colorado history. Bud had a huge sweet tooth and never said no to dark chocolate or cookies. He loved to swim and to soak in the local hot springs, particularly the Greenhouse in Hooper.
He is survived by his son, Mike (Jennifer) Stoeber, daughter, Julie Stoeber; his loving siblings; Rick (Betty) Stoeber, Judy Crowley, Jane Worker, Jackie Plant, and Janet Hale; and sister-in-law Sharon Stoeber. Bud leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love and memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Eva Stoeber, his wife Nancy Stoeber, his son, Luke Stoeber, and his siblings; Jim Stoeber, Gerri (Maynard) Burnett, Evelyn (Bill) Worker, Jean (Ronnie) Hart, and brothers-in-law, Sam Crawley, Buddy Worker, Bill Worker, Ronnie Hart, and Nick Hale.
Cremation was chosen and a Vigil Service with Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, also at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista. Interment of ashes for Bud and Nancy will take place following the Mass in the Monte Vista Cemetery.
To express condolences to the family, please visit www.mvmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monte Vista.
Arrangements are in the compassionate care of Mountain Valley Mortuary.
