Theodore Burdean Traxler

Theodore Burdean Traxler was born on January 14, 1932, in Mendota, Missouri and passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and unwavering faith. He was the youngest child of Charley Johnson Traxler and Myrtle Ione Traxler.

Raised during the Great Depression, he grew up in a loving but challenging environment with his siblings—Dallas, Charles Jr. and Mary. After graduating from high school in Ottumwa, Iowa, Theodore answered the call of duty and joined the U.S. Air Force. His time at the Air Force base in Roswell, New Mexico not only shaped his technical skills as an electronics technician for the B-36 Peacemaker, but also led him to meet his beloved wife, Lavida Whitehead.

With a strong commitment to education and faith, Theodore earned a degree in Education from Parsons College in Iowa. He began his teaching career in Ottumwa but soon moved back to Roswell. He earned his master’s degree in education from Eastern New Mexico University and eventually became the principal at Mountain View Middle School. In 1974 Theodore felt a higher calling to serve in Christian education. This decision took him and his family across the country, where he became a respected administrator in various Christian schools in New Mexico, Iowa, Indiana, Colorado, and Missouri.

Even after "retirement," Theodore’s industrious spirit shone through as he partnered with his brother Charles in a successful business venture in Ottumwa. He remained active and engaged with his family, often taking on “honey-do” projects for his children and others. Eventually, Theodore and Lavida settled in Roswell where he was active in the First Baptist Church as a teacher and song leader. He also taught at the New Mexico Military Institute and enjoyed traveling with and supporting Lavida in her clothing and jewelry business. In 2013 he and Lavida moved to Colorado Springs spending his last years surrounded by and enjoying family, while also passionately writing articles expressing his concern for the state of America.

Theodore is survived by his loving wife Lavida and their five children Sherrie, Mara, Catherine, Terry, and Chad; ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His life was marked by love for family and a commitment to uplifting those around him through education and service. As we remember Theodore Traxler, we celebrate a life well-lived—a testament to the power of faith and to the impact one individual can have on countless lives. His spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Theodore. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family kindly requests donations be made to Students for Life in lieu of flowers.

Information for Theodore’s memorial services can be found at www.dignitymemorial.com

A visitation for Theodore will be held Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Swan Law Funeral Directors, 501 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903. A graveside service will occur Thursday, September 26, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at Pikes Peak National Cemetery, 10545 Drennan Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80925. A celebration of life will occur Thursday, September 26, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at The Road Church, 2025 Parliament Dr, Colorado Springs, CO 80920.