Stephen Eric Roper

Stephen Eric Roper (Steve), age 49, of Longmont, Colorado passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. Steve was born in Boulder, Colorado on September 25, 1972 to Barbara and John Roper. On a beautiful summer day, just shy of his 50th birthday Steve lost his battle with alcohol addiction.

Steve grew up playing soccer and baseball. He graduated from Fairview High School in 1990 where he excelled in track and cross country. Lettering all three years, he was the 3A Colorado High School champion in the 800 meter run in 1990.

His love of running led him to the University of Colorado. As a CU Buff, he earned letters in both track and cross country. After graduating in 1996, he became a track coach working with sprinters at Centaurus High School in Lafayette. His love of the kids led him to pursue teaching. He obtained his teaching license in 2001 and spent the next 15 years at Jenkins Middle School in Colorado Springs where he was a Social Studies teacher and coach. Coach Roper’s teams were school district and city champions for many of those years.

In later years, Steve had an accomplished career in customer service. He was well respected, friendly and had a way with people. Often complimented, he always had a smile. He was hard-working and had a great work ethic.

He was an avid sports fan. Steve loved college sports, the Colorado Avalanche and especially the Boston Red Sox.

Steve loved spending time with his family. He was a loving son, brother, uncle and nephew. His smile, spirit and loving ways will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving Steve are his mother Barbara and father John of Longmont, his brother Jay of Sarasota, Florida and sister Leanne Shepherd of Erie, his nieces Sarah and Emma Shepherd also of Erie and nephews Trevor Shepherd of Portland, Maine and Brendan Roper of Sarasota, Florida.

Services will be held at a later date. The family asks that you consider a donation to the Longmont Public Safety Angel Initiative 225 Kimbark St. Longmont, CO 80501.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Roper family.