Jacob William Stoneberger, “Stony”, 86, of Federal Heights, CO, died March 17, 2017, at a Denver Hospital. Born June 22, 1930, in Stanley, VA, son of the late Carson Melvin Stoneberger and Mina Irene Bradley Stoneberger, Stony had 10 siblings.

Jacob, a descendant of Mayflower passenger William Brewster, his 10th maternal great-grandfather (1566-1644), embarked on a military career at age 17. Although he volunteered for the Army, he instead became one of the first members of the new Air Force where he served during the Korean war, completing an impressive career spanning twenty years, ending rank of Tech-Sergeant. On September 23, 1950, Stony married Ellen Louise Frese¸ of Denver, CO, who survives him and remains the love of his life.

Stony is also survived by daughter, Judith D. Ericson, of Castle Rock, CO; and sons, Jacob W. Stoneberger, Jr., of Federal Heights¸ CO and Jerry L. Stoneberger, of Pierce, CO ; two brothers, P. Larry Stoneberger of Stanley, VA, Kenneth W. Stoneberger of Luray, VA; a sister, B. Maybelle Good of Luray, VA; and to his joy, Stoney and Ellen have 11 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

Stony had a successful second career in financial business and retired at age 55 to travel with Ellen, join their long-time friends in evenings of dancing, and more, to enjoy the heck out of their children and grandchildren. Hobbies of bowling and golfing kept Stony involved, however, he loved nothing more than fishing with family! Stony’s legacy will live on as the inspiration for the Stoneberger Men’s Angler Retreat Tournament (SMART) annual weekends he participated in every June since 1997. He very much appreciated Blue Grass and Country music, the Colorado mountains and remembered fondly the Virginia fall leaves changing colors into what he called a “bouquet of flowers”.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen I. Bradley and Isabelle R. Good; five brothers, Alfred C. (Pete), Samuel L., Roy L., James E. and Billy J. Stoneberger.

Stony will always be remembered as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, a loving mentor and friend to all. I Corinthians 16:14.

Visitation on Thursday, March 30, 2017, 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Family Mortuary.
Funeral service to be held on Friday, March 31, 2017, at 10:30 a.m., at Newcomer Family Mortuary, 401 S. Sheridan, Lakewood, CO 80226, 303/274-6065. Military graveside service to be held at 12:30, at Ft. Logan National Cemetery.

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