Uncle Steve

"When a cowboy gets too old to set a bad example, he gives good advice"

James Stephen “Steve” Etzold rode into this world on July 28, 1938, in McPherson, Kansas, and after 86 years of grit, wit, and a life lived full throttle (and sometimes on two wheels), he hung up his boots for the last time on March 25, 2025.

Steve was raised in the wide-open beauty of Taos, New Mexico—where horses outnumbered cars and ranching was a way of life, not a weekend hobby. The youngest of four boys, he wrangled livestock and occasionally his older brothers at the family’s beloved guest ranch, Rancho de San Geronimo. He graduated from Taos Junior High School before the family relocated to Albuquerque for health reasons—but Steve’s wild Western spirit never left Taos behind.

At Albuquerque High School, Steve proved that he was as quick on the court as he was on horseback, lettering in both basketball and football. He went on to attend the University of New Mexico and joined Sigma Chi fraternity, where he perfected the fine art of balancing academics, leadership, and spirited storytelling (some of which might have actually happened).

Steve served his community with integrity in the New Mexico National Guard, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and the Albuquerque Municipal Court. He built a long, respected career in insurance claims and legal work, ultimately founding Etzold Associates in Denver, Colorado. He retired after thirty years.

When he wasn’t cracking cases or cracking jokes, Steve was tearing up desert roads on his motorcycle or savoring the rugged beauty of the Southwest. He loved the open sky, the dusty trail, and a good pair of well-worn boots.

Steve described himself best:

“I have a naturally authoritative personality, am a leader, am self-confident, and at times can be a little dominant. I enjoy being in charge, have a somewhat fixed nature, communication style, and independent spirit. I can be capricious and cantankerous. Your words have tremendous power.”

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Howard and Sara Engberg Etzold of Taos and Albuquerque, and by his three older brothers: David E. Etzold, William L. Etzold, and John A. Etzold, DDS.

He is survived by his nephews David F. Etzold (El Paso, TX), William Britton “Brit” Etzold (Bainbridge Island, WA), and niece Laura L. Etzold Roehl (Sommerville, SC), along with extended family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to hear one of his tall tales.

In lieu of flowers, take a moment to stand outside, breathe in the desert air, and do something bold, stubborn, or wildly independent—in Steve’s honor.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Fort Logan National Cemetery, day & time to be announced soon.