Richard K. Westerburg

Richard K. Westerburg, 76 of Platea, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on the morning of Friday, June 5, 2026. 

He was born March 26, 1950, a son of the late Richard M. and Lillian (Holtman) Westerburg. 

Richard was born in Kane, PA and grew up in Erie County alongside his large family. Following schooling, he enlisted in the United States Army and served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. 

During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, three Overseas Service Bars, Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star with Valor Device, Purple Heart, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. Following his honorable discharge he returned to Erie County.

Richard began working in construction, mostly drywall. He later started his own company Whysum Construction, which he owned and operated for several years. He later worked for First Finish as a supervisor, working out of town remodeling hotels. He retired in 2016. Along the way he mentored young apprentices. He earned the nickname “The Wizard” for his drywall finishing skills.

Richard loved his family. He enjoyed playing Texas Hold ‘Em and Contract Rummy as well as to fish and camping. He enjoyed riding his Harley up into his fifties. Elvis was his favorite singer.

In his later years he looked forward to spending several months camping every winter with his wife in Florida.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Carol Brinkman, Rebecca Bowers; and his brother Carl Westerburg.

Rich will be greatly missed by beloved wife Sandra (Gearhart) Westerburg, whom he married on August 3, 1997; his daughters Missie Bayer(Denny), Vicki Power (Robert), and Jody Boratyn (Theodore); his sons Richard Andrew Westerburg (Alyssa), and Ryan Westerburg; his stepson Jason White (Tracy); his sisters Kathy Krause, Margaret Williams (Chuck), Gwendolyn Green, and Janet Gadley (Robert); brothers, Charles Westerburg (Marcel), Robert Westerburg, Patrick Westerburg (Tina); fourteen grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Richard Westerburg Memorial Fund c/o Edder Family Funeral Home, 309 Main Street East, Girard, PA 16417.

Friends may call on Friday, June 12, 2026, from 2:00 pm until the time of the funeral service at 5:00 pm at the Edder Family Funeral Home, 309 Main Street E, Girard, PA 16417.

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