Steven Leonard Werbelow

Steven Leonard Werbelow passed away Oct. 23, 2024. He was a loving father, brother, uncle, grandfather and friend. Steve was born in Powell, Wyoming, June 25, 1958 to Clarence and Barbara Werbelow. He spent his childhood in California and moved to Wyoming the day after his high school graduation. 

Steve worked for nearly 25 years for the City of Powell but it was his love of hunting and the outdoors that drew him to his greatest passion — taxidermy. During his 40 years as a professional taxidermist, Steve earned multiple recognitions and awards, including Artisan Award from the Wyoming Association of Taxidermy Artists in 2019 and a Best in Show from the National Taxidermist Association for his mount of a white-tailed deer. 

Steve worked for Leading Edge Taxidermy in Cody, Wyoming, for many years and worked on multiple taxidermy projects at the Draper Museum of Natural History at the Buffalo Bill Historical Museum. He also worked for Dewey Wildlife Studio in Cody, where he spent 16 years perfecting his craft and developing lifelong friendships with colleagues. He retired in June 2023.

Steve was a close friend to many throughout the community. He had a natural gift for storytelling, was competitive by nature (most apparent during family game nights) and was quick to invite others on his outdoor adventures. 

He shared his home, time and resources so others could also enjoy the activities he loved so much. His knowledge of the Wyoming terrain was matched by his desire to include the people around him. 

Steve was devoted to the Werbelow family, remaining close with his three siblings throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Werbelow, who passed in 2023.

He is survived by his mother, Barbara Werbelow of Powell; son Hunter, daughter McKenna; granddaughter Reign Seibert; sister Pamla Tsutsui (Wesley) of Morgan Hill, California; brother Rodney (Julie) Werbelow of Powell; and sister Kelly Utic (Richard) of Bend, Oregon; and many nieces and nephews. 

A service will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Elk's Lodge, 581 N, Clark in Powell at 4:00pm.  in honor of Steve, attire will be casual, camo preferred.

Condolences can be sent to Thompson Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wyoming Association of Taxidermy Artists. Payment can be sent “In Memory of Steven Werbelow” via wyoata@hotmail.com, PayPal, or by mailing your donation to 30 McCullough Road, Cody, Wyo. 82414.