Daniel "Dan" Wester

Dan Wester, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated farmer, passed away peacefully at his home on June 12, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born on April 27, 1936, to James Orbit Wester and Zula Marie (Robb) Wester, Dan was a lifelong steward of the land. He was raised on the family dairy farm in Fordland, where his childhood instilled a respect for nature and a passion for farming.  His land was more than just a place to live; it was a legacy his family had gathered and preserved, and Dan dedicated his life to its care. Nancy and Dan were married April 8th 1959. Together, they poured their hearts into the dairy farm, working side-by-side throughout their 66 years of marriage and building a life rooted in shared devotion. One of the joys of his life was being able to raise his children on the farm, and work the land with his son, Alan.    

Dan's love for his farm was matched only by his love for his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Nancy Wester; his children, Carolyn Wester-Abbasi (Walid), Gregory Alan Wester, and Shari Joan Southard (Paul); and eight grandchildren, Danny Wester, Cari Ussery, Joe Wester, Joad Abbasi, Noah Abbasi, Lauren Gann, Abi Southard, and Cade Southard; and three great-grandchildren, Alivia and Eve Ussery, and Emerald Gann.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Orbit and Marie Wester, and his brother, Kenneth Wayne Wester.

Anyone who knew Dan knew that he loved exploring the areas around panther creek and Wester Bluff, whether on a 4-wheeler, truck, or tractor.  He was an avid reader with a special fondness for Westerns, and loved driving back roads listening to bluegrass music. Dan spent a lifetime gathering knowledge of farming, nature, and animals, and loved sharing it with his children. 

Dan earned a reputation as one of the best pool players in the area, and many nights were spent in friendly competition with friends and family. He and Nancy enjoyed exploring the country together, making memories from the swamps of Louisiana to the frontiers of Alaska.  Dan was also a member of the Shiloh church for over 60 years.

Dan's quiet strength, commitment to his family, and deep connection to the land he preserved will be deeply missed.  His passion for farming will forever live on through his children and grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation service to celebrate Dan's life, which will be held at Fraker Funeral Home, Marshfield, MO, on Sunday, June 15, 2025 between 2:00-3:00 p.m. A graveside service at Panther Valley Cemetery, Rogersville, MO, to follow at 3:30, lead by Mr. Greg Atkinson. All are welcome.