Richard Lew Wesbrook

Col. (Ret.) Richard Lew Wesbrook (93 years old) became the family guardian angel, surrounded by family through his final moments, on January 23, 2025. He was born on February 13, 1931, in Los Angeles, CA to Lew E and Mable A Wesbrook where they lived in Eagle Rock, CA in a home his father had built. “Wes” as he was known throughout his life had a fun childhood taking advantage of all that the beaches of southern CA had to offer. Wes had applied for Aviation Cadet Flight School right after his 20th birthday (1951), which he was accepted into. While waiting for his spot in ACFS, he enlisted and went through basic training. In late January 1952 Wes’ dream came true and he started Flight School. 

While stationed at George Air Force Base Wes met and “courted” Darlene Rae Danforth. He knew from the beginning she was the one and they married on October 1, 1955. Wes and Darlene were married for 69 years, and she was the love of his life! They welcomed two daughters, Kim Marie (1957) and Kathy DeAnn (1960) and continued their military career with many moves, many of which involved a nearby beach which was near and dear to his heart as he swam as much as possible until after he was 90 years old. The family would often reminisce at how adept they got at moving having made 22 household moves in the 19 years they spent together in the Air Force.

His 23 years as a fighter pilot in the US Air Force Career was something Wes was extremely proud of and would beam with pride when talking about his service. Wes retired as a full Colonel at the age of 42.

Wes loved his beloved wife and his family so much, after his retirement he would attend many events for all of the grandchildren and then, more recently, for the “Great” Grands. You could always hear him on the sidelines cheering on, including a quite loud bellow of “That’s My Grand Daughter”. Everyone in attendance would get a kick out of how proud he was of all of them. His smile and his laugh (especially the laugh when he was really tickled about something) will be remembered forever.

Wes is survived by his wife Darlene Rae, two daughters Kim Marie (Gary) Ewen and Kathy DeAnn (Scott) Hogy. Grand Children Kelsey Mae (Nathan) Bottcher, Travis Wesbrook Ewen, Sara Marie (Riley) Andrews, Jessica Scott (Aaron) Waldren and Katelyn Marie Ewen; and eight Great Grand Children. He loved his family more than anything and loved each moment spent together.

There will be an Open House Celebration of a Life Well Lived and Loved for friends and family at the Hogy home on Saturday, February 1, 2025, between Noon – 4:00 PM.