Jeffrey "Jeff" Westerbeck

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Jeffrey Scott Westerbeck, age 61, on September 6, 2025.

Jeff was born in Grand Island, Nebraska, on April 24, 1964, to Larry Westerbeck and LaVonne Shelker. He grew up in Bloomington, Minnesota, and graduated with the final class to attend Lincoln High School. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.

Throughout his life, Jeff lived in many places—Nebraska, Minnesota, Ohio, Virginia, Texas, and eventually returned to Minnesota—forming lasting friendships wherever he went. He had a beautiful singing voice and a deep love for music. Playing guitar and singing gave him, and those lucky enough to hear him, great joy.

Jeff’s passion for cars and motorcycles began at an early age. He enjoyed working on engines and driving anything with wheels. He was also a talented cook and a lifelong watch collector.

He is survived by his mother, LaVonne Shelker; stepmother, Jane Westerbeck; siblings, Julie Westerbeck Suemitsu (Tomo), Todd Westerbeck (Maria), Seri Westerbeck, Karl Westerbeck, Sharon Dierling (Ed), and Carla Shelker; nieces and nephews, Tony, Jennifer and Jacob Westerbeck; Monica, Lynn and Emily Suemitsu.

Jeff is preceded in death by his father, Larry Westerbeck; stepfather, Robert Shelker; grandparents, Ed and Irene Ehresman, and Lyle and Carol Westerbeck; and his beloved Chancy.

Though Jeff’s journey on this earth has ended, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to echo in the lives he touched. His spirit remains with us—in every song, every engine rev, and every moment of quiet reflection.

“What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” — Helen Keller