Marjorie Ione Stengel

Gone but Not Forgotten Marjorie Ione Stengel (Sullivan), or better known as Marj by her friends and family, was born on October 18th, 1928 in Norwood, Colorado and soon moved with her family of 7 siblings to a beautiful ranch in Boulder, Colorado. She was a busy child. When she wasn't working on the ranch, she was involved in her studies, or singing or playing the piano. She was very gifted in several areas. Her skills and work ethic enabled her to graduate from Denver South High School and begin her studies in music at CU Boulder at the tender age of 16. Some of her fondest memories were at CU where she held the title of Majorette. Marj was quite involved in other activities like Job's Daughters and even spent some of her time with the USO during WWII. Soon after the war, she met the love of her life James Joseph Stengel on a blind date. She and Jim were married January 4, 1948 and settled in Boulder. Together they created a happy and successful family in a stable and loving home. Marj and Jim ran their business, Bestop Mfg., which grew to be a leading manufacturer of cloth "tops" for Jeeps and other recreational vehicles. After they retired from Bestop in 1980, she was able to spend more time with her husband. They traveled in their RV and spent each summer helping facilitate the Yesteryear Farm Show in Longmont, Colorado. In Marj's free time, you might have found her painting china ware and beautiful porcelain dolls, playing the piano or organ, baking, or spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Marj was a survivor. Anyone that knew her was impressed by her strength. She survived the Big Thompson Flood, a tornado that hit her home in 1997, and was able to persevere after her husband died in 2005. Up to her last days, Marj was full of life. Her sense of humor and wit were enjoyed by her friends, family and caretakers. She died peacefully with family at her side. Marj's memories will be kept alive by her children, Gordon Stengel (Brenda), Carole Stengel, Ann Berry (John), Joe Stengel (Jobe), 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers or gifts, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice in Marj's name. A celebration of life will be held later in the summer.