Stephen James Neumon

In the early morning of November 11, 2015, Stephen passed away at University of New Mexico hospital surrounded by the love of his wife and daughters.

Stephen James Neumon was born in Albuquerque on July 6, 1950. He was the third child of Bert and Elsa Neumon. Stephen attended Del Norte High School where he was on the swim team. It was during this time that Stephen began to perfect his questioning approach to authority and mischievous sense of humor. As an adult, he often remarked on the great patience of his mother and teachers.

Stephen attended the University of New Mexico and graduated in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He began his professional career at SED Medical Laboratory as a cytology and histology technician. In 1972 he completed the Cytology Program at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado. Then he returned to SED where he was a staff cytotechnologist until he became the Cytology Manager/Supervisor. In 2005 he began working for Tricore Reference Laboratories as the Cytology Supervisor. When he retired in 2012, he was the Associate Director of Anatomic Pathology. Throughout his nearly 40 year career, Stephen was a generous co-worker who mentored others beyond the field of cytology.

Stephen was an exceptional wood worker. He began learning the craft when he was 25 and continued to hone his skills throughout the rest of his life. He produced hundreds of high quality, handcrafted pieces including a stunning Ming Dynasty cabinet, Federal style furniture with inlay, and numerous custom made works of art. After retiring he enjoyed spending his days in the shop. One of the last items he made was a spectacular mission style bed and dresser with inlay for his daughter, Katherine.

Family was always important to Stephen. He grew up in a close-knit family with his brother Norman and his sisters, Julie and Kris. He loved his daughters, but like all grandparents, truly adored his grandchildren. As a retiree, he was always willing to drop everything and be en route with assistance (and donuts) whenever he was needed. A life long learner, his continuing education included newborn care, laundry, and dinner preparation on The Green Egg.

Stephen is survived by his wife, Donna; daughters Kelly Durrett, Katherine Neumon, and Kristin Doran; grandchildren Owen, Alice and Margot Durrett; Johnathon, Tyler, and Brandon Doran; siblings Norman, Kris, and Julie; and golden retrievers Wylie and Boomer.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Stephen Neumon. It will be held on Monday, November 16, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1100 Indian School Rd NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102. Luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to www.doitfordurrett.com. The Do It For Durrett Foundation was formed after the death of Stephen's son-in-law Richard in June 2014. It is focused on raising funds for area working-class families who have been impacted by a sudden loss. The non-profit organization was established to provide financial support to the surviving members of the families so they can try to focus on the day-to-day job of trying to move on without a loved one. While it is impossible to make up for the loss, the Foundation's goal is to make the burdens that often accompany a sudden loss a little easier. Stephen was involved in the foundation's inaugural event and felt connected to its work.