Richard Westerberg

1937 - 2025

Richard Westerberg

August 4, 1937 - August 4, 2025

Richard Bruce Westerberg, 88, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on his 88th birthday, August 4, 2025, at Dove Healthcare West in Eau Claire, WI, surrounded by love.

Richard was born on August 4th, 1937, to his parents Edwin & Dorothy Westerberg in Durand, WI. He spent many of his childhood days in Stockholm, WI with his grandparents, Herman and Edith Larson. He also spent his youth fishing with his favorite Uncle Sonny on Lake Pepin and becoming an Eagle Scout. Many would say, he could catch a walleye in a mud puddle.

Richard started in the Navy Reserves soon after becoming an adult where he became a Signalman 3. During his time in the Reserves, he married his wife, Sylvia Nelson, in 1958 and they were married for 67 years. During Richard's adult life he worked for International Harvester for 40 years as a Parts Manager. He also spent many years working in the church as a Head Church Elder helping the Ministers, providing meals for the congregation, and teaching his family and friends about faith.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose life was built on faith, family, and the outdoors. He was the beloved husband of Sylvia Westerberg, his partner in love and life. Together they raised four wonderful children, Randy (Mary) Westerberg, Karie (Pat) Miller, Kim (Jerry) Bodeker, Ryen (Mary Jo) Westerberg, who in turn blessed them with eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, each one holding a special place in his heart. His presence will be deeply missed by his siblings Theodore (Barbara) Westerberg, and Kathy (Paul) Winters and many nieces and nephews.

Richard's love for nature was evident in his favorite pastimes. He was an avid fisherman, deer and duck hunter, & Scoutmaster, finding peace and joy on the water and in the woods. When he wasn't outdoors, you could often find him at a local church, enjoying a game of dart ball with family and friends where they won many championships. He also took great pleasure in watching the Wisconsin Badgers, Brewers, and Packers-a tradition that brought him laughter, joy, and connection.

Those who knew Richard will remember his kind heart, steady presence, and the way his eyes lit up when speaking about his family or recounting a great day on the lake. His legacy of love, faith, and simple joys will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Richard is preceded into death by his parents, siblings (Michael (Sonya) & David (Debbi) Westerberg, and grandchildren (Amanda and Jerry Bodeker) and dear cat Willie.

A Celebration of Richard's Life will be held at Our Redeemer Church on Tuesday, August 26th. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by services at 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to join the family for lunch in the Fellowship Hall immediately after the service. Following lunch, interment will take place at Lakeview Cemetery.

A life well lived, surrounded by those he loved most. Forever in our hearts his love will guide us.

A special thank you to Marshfield Hospital of Eau Claire, St. Croix Hospice, and Dove West Healthcare of Eau Claire.

Chippewa Valley Cremation Services – Celebration of Life Center is assisting the family with services. Online condolences can be left at www.chippewavalleycremation.com.