IN MEMORIAM
EXPANDED EULOGIES
“In Memoriam” listings are expanded paid obituaries, phrased as the family requests, and may include enhanced information or photographs that might not fit within free death notices.
Dave Oursler
Funeral service for David “Dave” Glen Oursler, 74, a devoted patriarch, respected community member, and hardworking businessman who passed away Feb. 19, 2024, in Peabody, were 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 26, at Peabody United Methodist Church.
Burial followed at Whitewater Center Cemetery. Visitation was 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Petersen Family Funeral Home, Newton.
David was born Jan. 29, 1950, in El Dorado to Kermit and Edna (Butts) Oursler. His legacy is a tapestry woven with threads of dedication and love for his family, friends, and community.
David attended several small country schools growing up. Included was a small, one-room country school called Wilcox. He went on to attend Peabody High School, graduating in 1968.
On July 26, 1970, David married his sweetie, Janet Loewen, at the Mennonite Brethren Church in Marion. From this union, the couple had three children — son Rodney Oursler (and wife Samantha) and two daughters, Trisha Oursler and Melissa Krien (and husband Tyler).
Before the wedding, David sustained a severe right eye injury. While in a hospital, he received deployment papers from the Army to go to Vietnam. Because of his injury, he received an honorable discharge from military service.
David’s journey in the construction industry began in 1967, when he purchased his first trencher. This marked the inception of his own construction company, Oursler Brothers, which later evolved into Middlecreek Corp.
The bond of brotherhood strengthened when brother Frank joined David in their shared venture in 1969. Their collaboration reshaped landscapes and built foundations that would endure for generations.
While David’s career achievements were notable, his proudest accomplishment lay in nurturing the legacy he built.
In 2021, son Rodney purchased Middlecreek Corp. from his father after 55 years of unwavering dedication. This transition allowed Dave to step into a well-deserved retirement, knowing that the future of the company rested securely in Rodney and Frank’s capable hands.
Complementing this familial team are a nephew, daughter-in-law, granddaughter, and grandson who continue to uphold David’s values and work ethic.
Beyond his professional endeavors, David cherished moments spent with loved ones and pursuing his hobbies.
Boating adventures, coyote-hunting escapades, camping retreats, and watching trains pass by his driveway brought him immense joy. His resilient spirit shone brightly even as he faced health challenges.
In 2015, David was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, a battle he faced with courage and grace.
Janet’s unwavering support as she retired from her career as a para-educator at Peabody-Burns Elementary School in 2016 to care for him epitomized their enduring bond.
Daughter Trisha also moved back in with her parents to assist in taking care of her father.
David’s civic contributions were equally impactful.
Serving on the Peabody City Council for eight years, he spearheaded initiatives that enhanced community infrastructure.
His efforts led to transformative projects such as bringing Hillsboro water to Peabody and overseeing installation of a new water tower and fire trucks — all accomplished at no cost to the town.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Harley Oursler.
Honoring David’s memory are his loving wife, Janet; brother Frank (and wife Sharon); son Rodney (and wife Samantha), daughters Trisha Oursler and Melissa Krien (and husband Tyler); cherished grandchildren McKayla, Tiyonnah, Ashtin, Ashton, Jozelynn, Reese, Tristyn and Taylor; and great-grandchildren Zayden and Aspynn
David will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His wisdom lives on in those he inspired, while his kindness resonates within every project he touched.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, rest in peace Dave; your legacy endures through the lives you touched and the memories you created.
Memorials may be made to Good Shepard Hospice, Children’s Mercy Hospital, or the Peabody American Legion and left in care of Petersen Family Funeral Home.