Ralph Stahlecker -- 2004

The Burlington Record, Burlington Colorado
Thursday, May 20, 2004

      Ralph Stahlecker was born to Isaiah and Marie (Stutz) Stahlecker on August 31, 1916. He was the sixth of 8 children. Preceding him in death were his sisters Martha and Pauline, brother Julius, Ed and another brother Albert, who died in infancy.

      He is survived by his wife Elma of 74 years and two daughters; Beulah Labert and husband Loren of Burlington and Annette Geist of Colorado Springs. Ralph is also survived by two grandchildren: Kyle Lambert and wife Tracy of Burlington and Toni Balestra of Colorado Springs, two great-grandchildren Zachary Lambert and Brittney Balestra/Villani, one sister Fried Schlichenmayer of Burlington, and one brother Jake Stahlecker and wife Lillian of Buhl, Idaho.

      Ralph married Elma Ziegler on April 19, 1940 in Goodland, Kan. He was schooled at Prairie View Country School and after the 8th grade he stayed home to help farm. This was done using horses and mules. He remained on the same farm for 76 years then moved to Burlington to retire. His main hobby after retiring was raising a garden.

      Ralph was baptized and confirmed in the Hope Congregational Church. His church and church family were a large part of his life. He sang in the men’s choir for many years. He was the church custodian for 32 years and also held various offices connected with the church.

      Ralph quietly passes away at 4:20 p.m. on May 10, 2004. Death closed his life at 87 years, 8 and ½ months. His quiet disposition and loyalty could always be counted upon. His personal service is closed but memories of his personality and friendship will pleasantly linger on in the host of his friends. He rests in the hands of Him whom he loved and served to the end.

      Funeral services for Mr. Stahlecker were held on Friday, May 14, 2004 at 1:30 p.m. at the Hope Congregational Church north of Bethune, with Pastors Terry Wilkinson and Bob Strauch officiating. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery in Burlington.

      Visitation for Ralph was held on Thursday, May 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Love Funeral Home in Burlington. Memorials may be made in Ralph’s name to the Hope Congregational Church or to the Caring Hands Hospice and may be left at the First National Bank in Burlington. Funeral service arrangements were entrusted to the Love Funeral Home, Burlington.