Steven Lee Metzler (SL) 76 (February 1st, 1947-September 29th, 2023)

Steve (SL) is known to us by many special titles, including but not limited to husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Recently referred to as “larger than life”, it would be observed through his life journeys amongst those of us that knew him and were kept strongly alive by his colorful photography, writing, and storytelling. 

Steve’s story began in a Nebraska blizzard in February of 1947 (imagine that, a blizzard in Nebraska….SL was born in a blizzard). He entered this world in a fashion reminiscent of the Norse and early Nebraska pioneers that he descended from, powerful and in the snow and ice. Steve grew in strength and even stronger, free will running through the green fields of Nebraska. As he moved through childhood and adolescence, he started to show signs of the renaissance man that he would become. He could be found with a sketch pad and pencil and most definitely around anything with wheels. He was also in a high school band where he learned to play a trumpet, which he would serve his country with when he was called by the United States of America. On February 21st, 1966, he joined the Armed Forces. After jump school, he officially became part of the 101st Airborne Division. The trumpet came into play when he was added to the 101st Airborne “Screaming Eagles” band. He enjoyed this immensely and also stood strong with the families of fallen heroes by being appointed to play taps at their funerals. When he served his term and returned to civilian life, he was quickly out on the scene where he just so happened to bump into a beauty called Susie standing by her………you guessed it…FORD MUSTANG! This is where the next chapter begins.

This chapter is a lifelong love story of Steve and Sue, a beautiful life of 52 plus years together. Steve pursued his career as an operating engineer while he and Sue raised three children. Steve also attended Metro Tech and studied art. Through the years, in the pursuit of work, adventure, and to capture beauty in the lens of a camera, Steve and his family traveled the states. In the 1980’s, SL found a new landing spot in New Mexico. The enchanting nature of the landscape, the dry warmth of the air, and the kindness of the community called this family to make Arenas Valley, NM home. Steve and his family never lost their love of the Midwest and, especially, family, because if anything, Steve was a keeper of stories and a fully engaged participant in living a noteworthy life story. 

Woven through the storyline are the attributes and talents of this renaissance guy. He was a phenomenal storyteller, painter, photographer, photojournalist, pet lover, naturalist, crane operator, and heck yes…a hot rodder. Although he spent a lot of time fully absorbed in pursuing these passions, he was always a family man first. He was known as “Even Steven”, a true gentle warrior and was filled with strength, kindness, generosity, patience, compassion and love. With the same zeal that he pursued his passions, he supported others in their pursuits. 

Dad/Steve, how broken we are that you have taken your exit, like the others that have gone before you ... there was still so much to live. We will continue to write the story of our family and, although an epic sunset will never be the same, we promise you that we will not let it escape our story without the click of a camera. 

He is survived by his wife, Sue Metzler of the family home; two sons, Seth Metzler of Arenas Valley; Zeb Metzler of Yuma, AZ; one daughter, Jennifer “Junior” Metzler of Silver City; three grandchildren, Ian, Katie, and Weston Metzler; a brother, Richard Metzler of Omaha, NE; a sister, Patty Taylor of Omaha, NE.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Robert Metzler; brother in-law, Bob Taylor and sister in-law, Alice Metzler.

Full military honors will take place on Friday, October 6th at 2pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels. 

Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory.  Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com .