Danny "Dan" Lee Earney

Danny “Dan” Lee Earney, age 82 years, 11 months and 15 days, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2026 peacefully at his home. He was born March 26, 1943 in Wesco, Missouri to Marion “Bill” Franklin Earney and Minnielee Gibbs Earney, who instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity and kindness.

He was predeceased by his beloved parents, his son Billy Dan Earney, and his brother-in-law Bill Moreland. Dan now joins them in eternal peace, leaving behind a legacy that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Dan's heart belonged to his devoted wife, Katherine “ Kathie”, with whom he shared nearly 63 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began on October 11, 1963, in Cook Station, MO, when he and Katherine Roberta Henson married and together they built a family rooted in love and mutual respect. Kathie was the center of Dan’s universe, and he delighted in making her happy every day of their life together.

Dan's life was further enriched by the joy of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His grandchildren, Sara (Mike) Zacher of Eureka, MO, Casi (Corey) Herrell, and Michael Dan (Alisha) Earney, both of Steelville, MO, were constant sources of pride. His legacy continues to shine brightly through his eight great-grandchildren: Brody, Logan, Lexi, Wyatt and his fiancée Naomi, Cameron, Cash, Elaina, and Gabriel Dan, who brought him immense joy and fulfillment. His sister, Iris Moreland, of Wesco also survives.

Professionally, Dan dedicated 33 years to Steelville Telephone, where he worked as an Outside Plant Foreman until his retirement in 1996 at the age of 55. His commitment and expertise left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the community he served.

Dan's passions extended beyond his career. He found solace and excitement in the great outdoors, often enjoying the thrill of riding his Harley motorcycle, gigging, and hunting. An enthusiast of old tractors, particularly Farmall, and vintage cars and trucks, Dan spent countless hours tinkering in his garage, his mechanical mind always at work. His love for NASCAR and the St. Louis Cardinals was rivaled only by his fondness for classic Westerns, especially those featuring John Wayne.

A proud past member of the Steelville Country Club and the local Coon Hunters Association, Dan's presence in these circles was marked by camaraderie and laughter. He was a friend to many, his good nature and humor leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him.

Above all, Dan treasured his role as a grandpa and great-grandpa, finding no greater joy than in the smiles and laughter of his family. His legacy is one of love, dedication, and the simple joys of life, which will continue to inspire and guide those he leaves behind.

The Family received friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, MO.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Beers officiating. Special music of "Believe", "Wish Grandpa's Never Die" and "Go Rest High" was played.

Committal prayer and interment were in the Wesco Cemetery, Wesco, MO.

Honored to be casket bearers were Michael Earney, Wyatt Harris, Steve Hodge, Colin Cottrell, Logan Knupp and Corey Herrell.

The Earney Family was served by the Britton-Bennett Funeral Home in Steelville, MO.

Memorials may be given in Danny’s name to Wesco Cemetery, 92 Barnicle Chapel Rd., Steelville, MO  65565

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