Dwayne Sterling

“Dwayne Wesley Sterling was born on January 12, 1935 in Enid Oklahoma. He was the third son of Cecil Daisy (Herald) and Thomas Reed Sterling. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Plynn Marcus Sterling and Thomas Reed Sterling Jr. He attended Enid Schools, worked for the local newspaper, and graduated from Enid High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Lois Tinder, on December 28, 1953. Dwayne studied history, science and literature while at Phillips University in Enid, Oklahoma. While at Phillips he welcomed two daughters, Denina (Brown) and Terri (Bell). After graduating from Phillips, Dwayne moved to a number of small towns in Kansas and Oklahoma where he taught English, history and served as the school librarian. During this time a third daughter, Cindy, was born. He graduated from Oklahoma University in 1965 with an MA in American History. He was then hired to teach by Denver Public Schools and always said he was most blessed to have been assigned to Emily Griffith Opportunity School. At the school for “all who care to learn”, Mr. Sterling met students from many walks of life. He enjoyed the many perspectives including veterans returning to school, international students, retired citizens who finally had time to complete their education and a plethora of diverse learners. Anyone who knew him knew he loved to tell a story. He believed that history informed the future so he shared a story with anyone who cared to listen. In 1976 Mr. Sterling was selected for a Fulbright Teacher Exchange and taught a year in Chesham, England. Dwayne retired from Denver Public School after 25 years, educated himself and tested to become an agent with the Internal Revenue Service. He assisted individuals with their taxes. He was often called upon by individuals in challenging circumstances and he offered a patient and kind approach to working through tax issues. Dwayne and his wife of 59 years enjoyed traveling and have visited many locations world-wide. His favorite spot on earth was Maui. They visited there bi- annually since he retired and always looked forward to returning. Dwayne was an avid Bronco fan and attended two super bowl games. He never lost his enthusiasm for the game or his team. Dwayne and Lois have been active members of South Suburban Christian Church since their move to the Denver area. As a Christian, Dwayne enjoyed serving as a Sunday school teacher and always looked forward to church activities. They also enjoy square-dancing with their Mountaineers Club. Family remained the focus of Dwayne’s life. He loved pot lucks, game night, reading stories, talking politics, and hugging children. He is survived by his wife and three daughters, three son in laws, 25 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and hundreds of students who sat in his classroom. Services will be held at 2:00 on Friday, August 16 at South Suburban Christian Church, 7275 South Broadway, Littleton, CO, 80122. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to South Suburban Christian Church or the Denver Hospice.