Steven J. Puttmann

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Steven James Puttmann. Steve was a beloved dad, husband, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor who touched the lives of many with his generosity and love for his family. His unexpected departure leaves a deep void in our hearts.

Born in 1949 in Sioux City, Iowa, his family moved to Lakewood, Colorado in the early 1950s. He played baseball, ran track, and was Vice President at Lakewood High. In 1961, he met his future wife, Mickey, by first befriending her brother, Tom Jr., in 7th grade. Steve and Mickey began dating in 1967. After graduating high school, Steve accomplished his goal of attending Colorado State University (CSU), working day and night at the college butcher shop to pay his tuition. Steve and Mickey married in 1970 and thus began their adventure through life together. Steve graduated CSU with a BS in Fisheries Biology (1971) and an MS in Fishery and Wildlife Biology (1973). His first job out of school led him to the unlikely state of Georgia. After a year working as a consultant in Atlanta, he accepted a job with the Colorado Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife [CPW]) at the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery. It is with CPW where he spent the next 30+ years, moving back to Fort Collins in 1976, and retiring in 2004 as Senior Aquatic Biologist of the Northeast Region.

In 1984, his dream of becoming a father was achieved when he and Mickey adopted Rachel and Sarah, with Aaron joining the family in 1987. He spent the next several years expertly performing fatherly duties including: carpooling for school and sporting events, coaching soccer, attending piano concerts, skiing, fishing, camping, and coming to terms with all the grey hair his kids gave him with their antics. He taught Rachel, Sarah, and Aaron numerous life lessons that they will carry with them forever. His appreciation for the outdoors, dedication to achieving success, and commitment to family have been passed down from him to his kids.

After retiring, he kept himself busy with consulting gigs, house and yardwork, golf, cheering on the Rams (especially football, basketball, and volleyball), traveling, hunting, and of course – fishing. One of his favorite places in the world was on the water at Lake McConaughy fishing with his brother, Ken. Lately, he liked to test his luck in Blackhawk with Mickey and their lifelong friends Bob and Mary. In 2014, he became a Papa with the birth of his granddaughter, Madeline Rose. Madi was the light of his life and the two shared a deep bond, often discussing the best parts of their days over massive bowls of ice cream. Recent health issues had kept him off his feet, but he was on the mend and looking forward to upcoming trips with friends and family.

Steve is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mickey, daughters Rachel, Sarah Ronkoske (Jeff), son Aaron, granddaughter Madi, brother Ken (Christy), sister Karin, brother-in-law Tom Schreivogel, Jr. (Sandi), and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother Antje, brothers Tom and Billy, and in-laws Tom Sr., and Betty Schreivogel.

Steve had a profound impact on many people and will be fondly remembered for so many things. His lifelong passion for fishing –always prepared to get out on the water in his happy place. His cooking – serving several years as "head chef" of Elk Camp. His appreciation of music – listening to Madi play the classics on piano and violin. His skill at hunting – teaching the family bird dogs to be excellent retrievers but better companions, with Mugs truly being man's best friend. His wisdom – having a deep understanding on life and all its ups and downs. His kindness – willing to drop anything to be there for anyone in a time of need. His unwavering support for his family – especially devoting his whole life to his wife and kids.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. Details will be announced once arrangements have been made. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Steve Puttmann's name to:
Colorado State University Foundation at P.O. Box 1870, Fort Collins, CO 80522
Please include Steve Puttmann and CSU, Warner College of Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife Conservation Biology in the check memo line or in the space provided on the online form.
Or
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital