James Leonard Steidley

James Leonard Steidley, 89, died Saturday, January 7, 2017, in Golden, Colorado. James was born in McAlester, Oklahoma on August 4, 1927 to Lester Holt Steidley and Annie (Manovsky) Steidley. He was the youngest of eight boys – four brothers and four Fabry cousins who joined his family when their parents passed. He was proud of many accomplishments in his life… -High School Salutatorian -Attended Oklahoma University, graduating with a degree in Geology -Served in the Merchant Marines, traveling all over the world -A Bronze Star recipient in the Korean War -His marriage of 52 years -His family, and -Career His career in the oil exploration industry continued for 45 years before retirement. Dad spent 23 years with City Service Oil Company, working primarily in Alaska in the Prudo Bay. He led the exploration division for Coastal Oil & Gas, as well as Phelps Dodge Fuel Development Division. In later years he was an Oil & Gas consultant. James was dedicated and passionate about everything he did. Favorite hobbies included his love for fishing - both hook and fly, and he enjoyed duck hunting. He enjoyed watching football, and was a dedicated OU Sooner fan. James was preceded in death by his brothers: George Steidley, Walter Steidley and Tommy Steidley. His wife, Barbara Steidley, and daughter Susan Mauldin. He is survived by his daughters Karen Beckenbach (Andy), Amy Damon (Michael Hausmann), and son J. Eric Steidley (Jennifer), and grandson Emmett Louis Steidley. A celebration of James' life will be held Thursday, January 12th at 3:00 PM MT at Horan & McConaty, 3101 S. Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80227. Please share your memories of James and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.