Robert Stegner

March 9, 1916 to Jan. 21, 2009 Robert Arthur Stegner passed away Jan. 21, 2009 on the farm he had lived on for 60 years. He was surrounded by three generations of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren after a life of nearly 93 years. His was a life of unwavering love and devotion to his family. He was born March 9, 1916 on the Stegner homestead near Amadon, N. D., the fourth child of Fred and Marie Stegner. Four of his siblings, Gladys Schimke, Norbert Stegner, Fred Stegner, and Ira Stegner preceded him in death. Sisters, Dorothy Warren and Marjorie Rowden, and brother, Tom Stegner survive him. His beloved wife Elizabeth, and her sister and his dear friend, Alpha Bowman, live at the family farm with the extended family. He first met his wife to be, Elizabeth Betty Bowman in 1937 at a Young Christian's Fellowship sponsored by the La Porte Presbyterian Church in La Porte. On Aug. 4, 1940, they were married on the Bowman Ranch now Lory State Park. Bob cherished his "sweetheart" and their 68 years together were a beautiful example of unconditional love. Their steadfast love expanded to include an extended family of 27 members. Their children are Gary Stegner and Pat, John Stegner and Bonnie, and Robert Stegner. One grandson, Randy Stegner preceded him in death. The surviving grandchildren and spouses include Jim and Eunice Stegner, Dan and Aimee Stegner, Timothy and Deborah Stegner, John and Kris Stegner, Shana and Brian Bode, Susan and Ethan Brady, and Kendra Stegner and fianc ¬ Nathan Bliss. Great grandchildren include Michael Stegner, Jack and Joshua Stegner, Indigo and Havanna Stegner, John and Helen Stegner, and Evan, Maya, and Ryan Bode. The grandchildren and great grandchildren loved and laughed with their grandpa, all getting to know him well. This was a wonderful gift granted by his long and positive life. Robert was a rancher/farmer his entire life, except for a brief period when he worked in Cheyenne, Wyo. converting United Airline planes into B-17 bombers during World War II. Robert loved life and truly enjoyed living and working with his wife Betty. They spent winters in Arizona and enjoyed many visits with extended family in the same village in Mesa, Ariz. Everyone always enjoyed spending spring break with them, and they were wonderful hosts for their family. They had one other special place in the mountains above Fort Collins that they loved to go in the summer. Again, it was a gathering place for them and their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Robert will always be remembered by his family as being good, faithful, and true. His light will shine on through his family for generations to come. A private family service will be held following cremation, with a memorial service planned for extended family and friends in July. The family wishes to especially thank Carrie Garabrandt for the loving care she gave Robert and the continuing affection and care she provides to Grandma Betty and Aunt Alpha. In addition, the staff at Hospice provided a gracious presence and wonderful support for the family, who cannot thank them enough for their help. Contributions may be made to Pathways Hospice or The Fort Collins First Presbyterian Church in care of Bohlender Funeral Chapel. Friends may send condolences to the family at bohlenderfuneralchapel.com.