Monte Vista resident Ernest John Stoeber, age 94, passed away peacefully at his home January 21, 2018.  Ernest was born in Del Norte, Colorado, April 21, 1923, the son of Gary & Marion Stoeber.  He married Donna Marie Smith, November 29, 1952 in Center, Colorado.

Immediately after graduating from high school, he started his own farm in the Hooper area.  He proudly served in the Army after which he resumed farming.  Ernest had a tremendous work ethic whether working on his own farm or for others.  It was during this time, he met the love of his life, Donna Smith.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snow skiing and most of all—his grandchildren where one of the highlights was playing the card game, spoons.  As his children and then grandchildren grew, he loved watching them play sports.

Ernest greeted his family enthusiastically with an ‘Oh Boy!’ making each one feel most special.  He was an example to us all with a constant smile and positive attitude.

He is survived by his wife, Donna, several siblings, and his children: Harold (Kathy) Stoeber, Ken Stoeber, Dan (Karen) Stoeber, Lori (Bill) Dooley, Joyce Kettleson, Ron (Sarah) Stoeber, Randall (Christa) Stoeber, Danette (Eric) Sandvik and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson, Seth Stoeber, his son-in-law Phil Kettleson and numerous siblings.

A visitation will be held from 1:00pm to 2:00 pm Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Valley Church of the Nazarene in Monte Vista.  Funeral services will follow the visitation at 2:00 pm Saturday, January 27, 2018 at the Valley Church of the Nazarene.  A social gathering will follow services in the fellowship hall of the church immediately following the service.  Private Internment of ashes will take place at a later date.  Contributions in his memory are suggested to the Sangre de Cristo FFA Alumni, P.O. Box 5, Mosca, CO 81146 and may be made directly to the FFA or through the funeral home office at 404 Morris St., Monte Vista, CO 81144.

Rogers Family Mortuary of Monte Vista is in care of the arrangements.  Online condolences, tributes and remarks for Ernie’s family may be left at www.RogersFunerals.com