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BORN
1945
DIED
2025
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Steve Pelican Obituary
Steve "Pel" Pelican
November 20, 1945
April 4, 2025
With broken hearts, we share the news that Steven Thomas Pelican ("Pel") passed at home just before sunrise last Friday, April 4th. His passing was sudden and unexpected, as he was living an active life brimming with joy until his last breath.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather, his legacy lives on in all of us: his loving wife of 50 years, Debi; beloved girls, Sam, Libby and Hanna; cherished sons-in-law, Christian, Will and Ben; and dear grandchildren, Tommy, Luci, Liam, Mae and Avery. His sisters, Suzy and Gail, find peace in him now being reunited with their parents, Tom and Betty Jane.
Steve was born November 20, 1945 in Los Angeles. Soon after his birth, his family moved to Colorado Springs - his forever home. There, Steve advanced justice with quiet determination in the district attorney's office and then as a district judge. After 23 years on the bench, he proudly mediated with the Judicial Arbiter Group from which he recently retired.
Steve was known for his kindness, integrity and humility. He provided a solid foundation for all who knew him. He poured himself into fundraising for cystic fibrosis research, which resulted in Sam and Libby outliving him - about which he always dreamed. Steve treasured family and friends, fly fishing, cribbage, history, all sports, naps, reading and travel.
We invite you to honor his legacy with us at his Joyful Remembrance. We will gather on Sunday, April 27th at 3 o'clock in the historic El Paso County Courtroom at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum. If you wish, please bring a photo or note to leave with us. For those unable to attend in person, please reach out for information on joining virtually. To carry forward Steve's impact, in lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Rocky Mountain Chapter.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our community for wrapping us in love…always. Pel is, and forever will be, within all of us.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Steve Pelican
Karen Lambart-Spencer
August 5, 2025
Debbi,
I only recently learned of Steve´s passing, and I am so very sorry for your loss. It has been said over and over, yet bears repeating~Steve was one of the finest person one could know. His honesty, integrity, compassion, and brilliant mind, made him an outstanding attorney,Judge and Arbitror
His love for you, Debbi was always so strong, and for his wonderful family.
It was an honor to know him over the years as a colleague and friend! You are in my thoughts, no matter the time since contact. Karen
Vic Buffetti
May 7, 2025
My condolences to you and your family. He always brightened your day and was a true gentleman.
Mary Cobb
April 24, 2025
Tim and I are so saddened to read this news. Steve was a fine gentle man and he always made us laugh as well as think! Deb, we send much love.
Elizabeth Spittler
April 24, 2025
Devastating news about Steve passing. Debi, you the girls are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.
Dave Hoover
April 15, 2025
My heart goes out to Deb, Sam, Libby, Hanna, and the entire Pelican family. I have liked and respected Steve for his honesty, integrity, intelligence, professionalism, and his smile for nearly 40 years. Our community has lost a truly great guy.
Ralph Gillmore
April 15, 2025
I am so very sorry to get the the news of Steve´s passing. I primarily new Steve from swimming at the Y & the work with systic fibrosis over the years. Steve was always such a friendly & great guy to have known!! He will be missed!
Ralph Gillmore
The Becks
April 14, 2025
Pel, we will always remember your quiet strength, your go-with-the-flow attitude and your adorable smile! We love the Pelican Tribe! xox Meg, Ron, Colby & Calvin Beck
Libby Pitman
April 13, 2025
So sorry, to all the Pelicans and dear friends
Libby Pitman
April 13, 2025
What a loss to all -Deb and family and friends and all the 4th Judicial District that worked with him.
Pam Hinton
April 13, 2025
My deepest sympathy to all of you. I had the privilege of knowing Steve since our old high school days.
nancy neel bullis
April 13, 2025
I have known Steve for 60 years-He was a kind, honorable and dignified man-and what class he had! My heartfelt condolences to the entire family.
Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results
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Memorial Events
for Steve Pelican
Funeral services provided by:
Swan-Law Funeral Directors501 North Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
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