Buena Vista, CO – Colorado community is mourning the loss of one of its cherished residents, Bonnie Culpepper, a multi-talented musician and dedicated EMT whose life was tragically cut short in a devastating head-on collision on October 18. Bonnie’s passing has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Bonnie was more than just a music instructor at Coletrain Music Academy (CMA); she was a true force of nature, an extraordinary adventurer, and a committed member of her community. Her unexpected departure has shaken the tight-knit neighborhood, leaving friends, relatives, and the community in profound shock and sorrow.
At CMA, Bonnie was more than a teacher; she was a mentor to countless aspiring artists. She was a multi-instrumentalist with a unique voice, a poet, a songwriter, a farmer, and a fearless adventurer. Her dedication extended beyond the world of music—she put her life on the line as an EMT, initially with Teller County and later with Eagle County. Her commitment to serving others earned her the love and respect of her colleagues and the people she helped.
A touching tribute to Bonnie’s dedication and heroism was witnessed during her final journey, as she received a full escort from Leadville to Denver. Multiple agencies, including law enforcement, fire departments, and EMS, united to honor her along the I-70 highway. It was a powerful testament to the impact she had on her community and the deep appreciation for her selfless service.
Bonnie’s adventurous spirit found joy in scaling mountains, often accompanied by her loyal husky companion, Belushi. Her love for the outdoors and her thirst for adventure were as integral to her character as her love for music and her dedication to saving lives. She embraced life to the fullest, facing challenges and joys with boundless spirit.
Bonnie Culpepper Obituary
The community is coming together to remember and celebrate Bonnie’s remarkable life at a planned celebration of life event, to be held at Riverside Park in Salida on Sunday, October 22, at 1 pm, followed by a reception at the Highside at 4 pm. This event will be a mix of emotions, with tears shed for the loss of a vibrant soul and laughter shared as friends and family reminisce about the joyful memories they created with Bonnie. Music, a fitting tribute, will fill the air in honor of the woman who dedicated her life to the art.
Bonnie Culpepper’s legacy as a music instructor at Coletrain Music Academy will endure, inspiring generations of musicians to come. Her impact extended beyond the academy and her profession—she touched lives through her music, saved lives as an EMT, and enriched lives with her adventurous spirit.
As the sun sets over the majestic mountains of Colorado, Bonnie Culpepper’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she left behind. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her love for adventure will remain an enduring inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing her. In the music she created, the lives she saved, and the mountains she conquered, Bonnie’s spirit lives on.
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