Paula Jean Eggerling

In loving memory of Paula Jean (Steele) Eggerling, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished daughter, sister, and friend whose life was defined by her compassion, creativity, and deep love for her family.

She passed away on October 4, 2026, in San Pedro, Belize.

Paula was born on August 27, 1970, to Paul Steele and Janet (Hervey) Steele. She grew up in Longmont, Colorado, alongside her sister, Kim (Steele) Smith, and brother, Roy Steele. It was in Longmont that Paula met the love of her life, David Eggerling. In 1992, Paula and David were married in Lyons, Colorado, on the mountain where David grew up, beginning a beautiful life together.

Paula dedicated her professional life to caring for others. She began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Foothills Care Center in Longmont, where she and David resided. In September 1993, they welcomed their first daughter, Elizabeth Marlene Eggerling. While raising Elizabeth, Paula continued to pursue her career, working as a CNA at Avista Hospital before being promoted to Medical Secretary.

Paula worked hard through long night shifts to help support the family she and David were building together. Despite the demanding hours, caring for others came naturally to her. It was more than a career; it was an innate gift that she carried into every part of her life. Through hard work and dedication, Paula and David invested their earnings into building their dream home in Berthoud, Colorado. In April 1998, their family grew once more with the arrival of their second daughter, Kathryn Elaine Eggerling.

The family of four made their home in the brick house on Breckenridge Court, a place that became so much more than a house because of the love Paula poured into it. She created a warm and welcoming home where family was always at the heart of everything. Paula had a special gift for caring for those she loved most, and she expressed that love in countless ways.

Holidays and family gatherings were made special by Paula’s generosity and love of cooking. She delighted in feeding the masses, bringing family and friends together around a table filled with food, laughter, and treasured memories. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and connection, where her love could be felt in every meal she prepared.

Paula’s creativity was another beautiful part of who she was. She loved sewing and made Halloween costumes for her daughters every year, creating cherished memories and sharing her artistic talents with them. Through her love and appreciation for the arts, Paula passed down a passion for creativity and craftsmanship that her daughters continue to carry on.

Beyond sewing and cooking, Paula found joy in taking care of children and her family. She also loved traveling with her husband, daughters, and sons-in-law, making memories and enjoying the special moments that life offered. Whether at home surrounded by loved ones or exploring somewhere new, Paula treasured the time she spent with her family.

Paula’s life was a reflection of the things that mattered most: love, family, compassion, and creating meaningful memories with the people closest to her. Her legacy lives on through the traditions she established, the creativity she shared, the meals she prepared, and the countless ways she made others feel cared for and loved.

Though she will be deeply missed, the warmth of her home and the love she gave so freely will remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her memory will forever be treasured by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Paula is survived by her beloved husband, David Eggerling of Berthoud, Colorado; her father, Paul Steele of Berthoud, Colorado; her daughters, Elizabeth Eggerling and her husband, Tim Rapp, of Mead, Colorado, and Kathryn Eggerling and her partner, Elliott Frantz, of Brooklyn, New York; her brother, Roy Steele of Mead, Colorado; and her sister, Kim Smith of Venice, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Janet Steele.

A Celebration of Life honoring Paula Jean (Steele) Eggerling will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at TPC Colorado Golf Course.

Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate Paula’s life, share memories, and honor the love, kindness, and beautiful legacy she leaves behind.