David George stephens

July 28, 1946 - April 20, 2026 With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of David George Stephens, who passed away on April 20, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of his family and the love of dear friends at his side. Born on July 28, 1946, in Montrose, Colorado, David’s journey through life was marked by profound devotion to his family and unwavering generosity. David was the cherished son of Rhodes and Carol Stephens, who predeceased him, and brother of Dan Stephens of Georgia. His life was enriched by 27 wonderful years of marriage to his devoted wife, Shannon Harbke. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared countless adventures, from the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the serene beauty of Colorado. Their cherished cabin on Vera Lake in Willow, Alaska, became a haven of joy, where David could often be found surrounded by the laughter of family and the beauty of Vera lake David was a proud father to his four daughters: Shanna Stephens Doughty, Shelley Plumb, Sharlene Stephens, and Sharla Turner. His legacy extends through his 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, with a third eagerly awaited. Step children Colin and Devin harbke and Rhea , David’s family was the heart of his world, and he reveled in every opportunity to bring joy to their lives, whether through shared meals, mischievous laughter, or the countless adventures he led them on. A man of many talents and interests, David’s early years were spent working alongside his father on the family farm, eventually establishing his own farm in Olathe, Colorado. His career path led him to the Department of Fish and Game, and later, to a successful venture in car sales. As the owner of D&D Auto Sales in Anchorage, Alaska, David’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly, and he later continued his passion for the automotive industry as a used car buyer for Kendall Ford. David was a man who cherished the simple joys of life. An avid fisherman, he delighted in sharing tales of his adventures with friends like Chuck Hudson and Larry Hatzwell, whether running airboats in the '70s or teaching his grandchildren to fish on the Willow or at Vera lake . His love for nature extended to hunting in his younger years, though he grew to prefer capturing the beauty of wildlife through his camera lens in later . His gentle spirit was evident in his hobby of stained glass and his care for the birds that visited his handmade feeders, and his love of his apple trees in his yard . Throughout his life, David was guided by a profound sense of generosity, particularly towards his family. His infectious laughter and playful spirit and joking with his grandkids endeared him to all, often making him the heart of any gathering. He was a member of the Elks Club in the 1980s and proudly participated in the FFA as a teen and was a great basketball player as a teenager . As we gather to celebrate David’s life this summer with a celebration of life ( date to be announced ) we remember a man whose kindness, wisdom, and love left an indelible mark on all who knew him. The Stephens family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and family who offered their love and support in David’s final moments, reminding him of the profound impact he had on their lives. David George Stephens will forever be remembered for his boundless love, adventurous spirit, and unwavering generosity. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were privileged to know him, and in the stories and laughter that he so cherished. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the beauty and love that he so richly deserved.