Gary E. Westergaard, age 68, of Olean, Missouri, died Thursday, February 19, 2009, at his home. He was born in Adair, Iowa on November 12, 1940, to the late Harry and Nona (Juhl) Westergaard. He was married on July 31, 1960, in Adair, Iowa, to Virginia Rose Hudson, who survives at the home.

Gary was a charter member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Adair, Iowa. He was a building contractor and raised cattle. He also enjoyed woodworking, farming and spending time with his family.

Others who survive him include: Three children, Ty Westergaard of Olean, Missouri, Becky Hayden and husband Clay of Olean, Missouri, and Lisa Westergaard of Kansas City, Missouri; one brother, Dean Westergaard and wife, Linda, of Adel, Iowa; one sister, Joyce Emgarten, of Adair, Iowa; four grandchildren, Chris Westergaard and Leslie, Jill and Jack Hayden, all of Olean, Missouri, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Russellville, Missouri. Rev. David Carlson will officiate. Interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday at Rekus Funeral Home in Eldon, Missouri.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Trinity Lutheran Church.