Bonnie Lea Culpepper

Bonnie, 29, of Salida, CO, passed away suddenly after an accident involving head on collision. Her family is shocked and deeply saddened by their loss.

Bonnie Lea Culpepper was born on August 1st, 1994 to parents Daniel Culpepper and Merri “earth mommy” Evans. After graduating in 2012 from Shenendehowa High School in Clifton Park, NY. Bonnie attended Colorado Mountain College with a focus in Avalanche Science.

Bonnie is survived by her parents, grandparents, Sarah Lara and Patricia Evans and Arthur and Jane Evans, her brothers, Tyler, Nicky, Fabio Jr. and Alex, her boyfriend, Lamp, her canine soulmate Belushi, step parents Fabio and Dale and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Bonnie was incredibly close to her family and friends and tried her best to support anyone in need at all times.

Bonnie was a beloved teacher at CMA and Camp Coletrain. Bonnie’s musical talent is nonpareil. She is a multi-instrumentalist with a voice like no other. She was a poet, a songwriter, a farmer, a one-wheeling force of nature, and a real-life superhero. When Bonnie wasn't teaching or performing, she was an EMT very proudly working for Eagle and Teller County and found great joy supporting her community.  Bonnie was a fearless adventurer and found great joy climbing mountains.

Bonnie was an amazing daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family requests donations be made to the ColeTrain Music Academy or to an EMT/Paramedic scholarship in Bonnie’s name. A celebration of life took place at Riverside Park in Salida this past Sunday, 10/22 at 1pm (video link) reception followed at the Highside at 4pm. There was a viewing for family members and friends on Monday, 10/23 at 8am at Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home in Salida. A private ash scattering ceremony will he held on the mountains at a future time.

Rest in peace, our sweet girl. You will be forever in our hearts.

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