Stephen Ferguson Obituary

Stephen Michael Ferguson, born August 26, 1949, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, died at home in Montezuma County, Colorado on September 5, 2024, following a diagnosis of esophageal cancer.

Raised by his formidable mother, Margaret Ferguson, and his father, Leslie, Steve had a special relationship with his grandfather, Myrl Packer. He never let anyone else load the car with luggage because what was his family name? Packer.

He is survived by his wife of fifty-one years, Fawn Pitcairn Ferguson; two sons: Stephen Ferguson II, and Zane Ferguson; four daughters: Tammany Haynes, Fairlight Whritner, Star Wuerdemann, and Cailin Hill; thirteen grandchildren, Rosie the cat, and his beloved, badly behaved Schipperke, Sparky. By happenstance, he had no Great Dane at the time of his passing. (RIP Brute, Duke, Buster, Max, and Blue.)

As a teenager, Steve worked at a local gas station; his time there greatly influenced him and gave him a lifelong love of British Triumphs. He attended Penn State for Business and Real Estate, and then studied Architecture. In 1980, he completed his magnum opus-an awe-inspiring barn topped with a two-story cupola-on his and Fawn's farm in Kintnersville, Pennsylvania.

A highly intelligent left-handed man who liked to be informed, he read at least two newspapers a day. Steve could repair anything, build anything, and always preferred to be outside. He was a master of many trades except plumbing-he left that to his lifelong best friend, Wayne Canesso (1949-2008). A farmer for over fifty years, Steve produced grass hay and barley, (frequently condemning the weatherman), had a 100-goat dairy herd, countless chickens, and raised horses. Along the way, he preserved over half a dozen historic Pennsylvania bank barn frames and, with Fawn and friends, completely restored the circa-1755 farmhouse in Kempton, Pennsylvania, that he and Fawn resided in.

Steve made it clear who was the boss (him) and who was the helper (you). He was known for his Aviator style Ray-Ban's and his bright-red Kempton Little League baseball cap which he hadn't left the house without since approximately 1993. Not a singer, you could frequently hear Steve whistling along to the music through his front teeth. A skilled photographer, he preferred being behind the camera rather than in the pictures; he was a true loner. Wherever he is, we hope he is enjoying a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios.

Per his wishes, Steve was cremated after his death. A memorial service will be held online on Saturday, October 27. Contact family members for details.

May you rest in peace, Red Rooster. Over and out.