Ida Vail "I.V." Pabst

Ida Vail “I.V.” Pabst passed away peacefully at her home in Hotchkiss, Colorado, on May 6, 2026.

Born on July 24, 1951, to Harald “Shorty” and Patricia “Patsy” Pabst, I.V. was a longtime resident of Old Snowmass, Colorado. She was deeply loved and treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

I.V. was a strong, courageous, intelligent, sometimes stubborn, and fiercely loving woman. She adored laughter and had a gift for brightening even the grayest days. At one unforgettable Easter scavenger hunt, she and a friend climbed into a box together to hilariously act out the clue “shits and giggles”.  Her ability to turn even the silliest moments into lasting laughter became one of the many things family and friends will always treasure about her.

Throughout her life, I.V. accomplished many things. She was a successful business owner, rancher, leader, and loyal friend. Of all her accomplishments, however, her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother to her two children and five grandchildren, cherishing snuggles, storytelling, and sharing in their adventures.  As a dedicated single mother, she raised her two children while independently operating a sheep and cattle ranch with remarkable strength and determination. Each morning, the animals were tended, the irrigation completed, and breakfast waiting on the table before her children even awoke. 

I.V. leaves behind a lasting legacy of adoration for the gifts life gives including the outdoors, critters, family and friends.  She enjoyed the finer things in life including great music and good wine.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Nick (Joyce) Pabst and John (Cathey) Pabst.

She is survived by her children, Ben (Gennell) Warner and Lissa Pabst; her grandchildren, Carter and Cooper Warner and Abee, Sela, and Jaxsun Pabst; her brother, Ken (Robin) Pabst; her sister, Tamzin Pabst; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A celebration of life will be held later this spring.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a contribution to either HopeWest (www.hopewestco.org) or Heifer International (www.heifer.org).