Donald Wayne Epperson Sr.

Donald Wayne Epperson Sr., was born on Sept. 10, 1939, on the family farm in St. Clair County, Mo., to David William and Elsie Florence (Carpenter) Epperson. He was an only child. He married Judith Ann Emerson on March 6, 1960. They have three children. Don is survived by his wife, Judith; daughter, Dorothy Ellen McQuown and husband David McQuown, of Webleau, Mo.; son, Donald Wayne Epperson Jr., and wife Tenny Epperson. of Stella, Mo.; son, Thomas Dale Epperson and wife Sheri Epperson, of Marshfield, Mo.; nine grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Don is very well known for his expertise as a tractor mechanic. His legacy began in 1962 when he went to work for Ed Foote in Osceola, Mo., and began specializing in John Deere equipment. In 1966, Don moved his tools to Clinton, Mo., and began working for Delozier Equipment and worked there for three years. Don was well known for making house calls to area farmers who were broke down in the field. By 1969, Don’s reputation had spread and he was a wanted man. He moved his tools again and again and finally settled at Deems Equipment in Nevada. Don had his favorites when it came to working on tractors. He tended to specialize in the older model tractors. His favorite was the two cylinder, “Johnny Poppers” and the 1969-70s models.

Don has made a lot of friends in the business and has left a lasting impression in the tractor service industry.

Don’s hobbies included square dancing, going to pawn shops, tractor pulls and collecting toy tractors which he has quite a collection of. Thank you to everyone for the kind words, prayers and friendship over the years. Don will be greatly missed.

Funeral services will be Friday, Dec. 15 at Hathaway Peterman Funeral Home in Wheatland, Mo. Visitation at 10 a.m. and services at 11 a.m. Burial at Robinson Cemetery.