Stephen Leon Leroux

Obituary Stephen Leon Leroux, a ranch kid from Radium Colorado, passed away Thursday, 15 February, 2018. He left an incredible legacy as a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son and host dad to 30 exchange kids from around the world. How do we describe Steve? He was, at his core, a gentle man, absolutely dedicated to family and causes he believed in. Steve was a quiet man but showed his love and kindness through countless acts. He touched many young lives around the world. His life was devoted to youth of all ages. He coached football to 7-9 year olds for over 10 years in Virginia, Oregon, and Colorado. He also coached wrestling and baseball for a few years. His goal as coach was to teach good sportsmanship and he always emphasized having fun. Steve also served as a scoutmaster when his sons were growing up. His oldest son attained the Eagle Scout rank. Steve was an active member of the Lions Club. He served as District Governor in 2012-2013. His most notable contribution however was reviving the Colorado Youth Exchange Program. He was statewide coordinator for over 10 years. Steve and his wife also personally hosted 30 kids during that time. As one Lion said, "Steve was an Ambassador to the youth of the world. He leaves a legacy of goodwill with hundreds of youths that will help bring peace to our world." His motto was "Youth are our future." Steve grew up on a cattle ranch in the Rockies. After graduating from West Grand high school in Kremmling, he earned his Bachelor's degree in International Affairs at CU Boulder. After college, he started working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. During this time, he also served in the Marine Corp reserve. Later, he transferred to the Bureau of Land Management in Washington, DC. While there, he earned a Master's degree in Public Administration from the American University. He continued his career at the BLM office in Portland, Oregon. He retired after a 30 year career in civil service. Steve married Jesusa (Susie) Tellez in 1966. They had two sons, Mark born in 1968 and James born in 1971. Their marriage ended after 17 years. Later, Steve met and married Vicki Tackley in 1989 in Portland, Oregon. She had two young sons from a previous marriage, Paul and Sean. When Steve retired in 1995, they moved back to Colorado where he lived out his life. Aside from his calling to help young people, Steve loved to travel. He and Vicki made 5 trips to eastern and western Europe. They also briefly visited South Korea. Steve's father William Roy Leroux and mother Lucille Leroux preceded him in death. His brother-in-law Tom Keefer also preceded him. Steve has four living siblings and their spouses: William Roy II and Rita, Sally Keefer, Linda Jones and Alvin, and Mike and Ann. Steve also leaves behind 2 sons and 2 stepsons and their wives: Mark and Linda of Texas, Jay and Melanie of Oregon, Paul and Stephanie of Colorado and Sean and Kathryn of Washington. He's enjoyed being Grandpa to 11 grandkids. A memorial service to celebrate Steve's life will be held on Friday, 9 March at the Windsong Event center at 1:00pm. (corner of Hwy 14 and Hwy 257 in Weld County). A light reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, Steve requested donations be given to the Colorado Lions Youth Exchange program. Checks can be made payable to the "Windsor Lions Club", PO Box 267, Windsor CO, 80550. SERVICES Memorial Service Friday, March 09, 2018 1:00 PM Windsong Estate 2901 Saddler Blvd Severence, Colorado Read More Services You can still show your support by sending flowers directly to the family, or by planting a memorial tree in the memory of Stephen Leon Leroux